The importance of giving back to our armed forces

This weekend was Armed Forces Day and it served as a reminder to thank the men and women who have and are still serving our country.

Many have their own ways of giving back to the men and women who answered the call of duty and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Whether it’s a Christmas card or a care package, veteran Ernie Mariscal said small gestures such as that does a lot for those who are are from home.

“And to get home or back to the barracks or wherever you sleep and to get that package, it does [an] amount of good because it just again it puts that pep in your step. You know when you’re feeling down and you get a little taste of home,” said Mariscal.

Veteran Raymond Gonzalez said a simple thank you helps veterans know that they’re not forgotten.
Gonzalez said, “Especially when we’re out in a group doing some kind of event as a group of veterans. And it still brings some kind of pride out of you and makes you proud of your service that you really put into your country.”

Kim Vincent along with volunteers from the Holtville American Legion visits veterans in senior homes to show their appreciation.
Vincent said, “So we’re a consistent organization that wants to go and honor and pay tribute as much as we can. So we’ve chosen to do that during the Easter and Christmas holiday.”

Vincent began a purse project where volunteers filled purses with necessities and hand them out to female veterans. Vincent said volunteers are overjoyed knowing they’re making a difference in a veterans life.

“Fulfilling for them to know that they are part of something larger than life themselves. And some of us have lost our loved ones. Veterans who served, who have served. It’s important for them to give back and this is a meaningful way we can give back to our veterans and active duty service men and women,” Kim said.

Mariscal and the Brawley American Legion will continue to honor veterans and active duty members with a Memorial Day walk on Saturday, May 25 and the Holtville American Legion will hold a Memorial Day ceremony next Monday, May 27 to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.