Peachtree – With some help from the local Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Townson-Rose Funeral Home shared their appreciation for local veterans with a drive-through barbecue last week.
Balloons lined the path veterans, active duty personnel and public servants were to travel with their cars, as volunteers from the association’s Chapter 15-8 cheerfully directed traffic, separating cars into two drive-through lines to prevent a backup of vehicles.
The funeral home’s volunteers served pulled pork on a bun, with sides of slaw and baked beans, prepared ready for pick up in disposable containers. They also provided soft drinks and other tokens of their appreciation.
They served 400 meals, including 40 that were delivered to veterans at their homes. Teresa Jefferies of Townson-Rose said the day went really well, although it was hard not be able to spend time together and enjoy a program.
“Everybody was so sweet, kind and appreciative,” Jefferies said. “We were just really happy to show we do appreciate them.”
She also appreciated the help from the motorcycle association, as the group always helps with parking for the event and were happy to adjust this year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jefferies said without their help, it would have been difficult to split her staff between managing traffic and serving meals.
“They’re wonderful,” Jefferies said.
The first Veterans Dinner meal was served outside the old Veterans Hut in 1998. The funeral home grilled and served hot dogs and hamburgers to less than 100 people. Over the years, the event grew and moved locations. This was the first year they hosted a drive-through version of the tradition.
In addition to the funeral home meal, veterans could enjoy local school programs and projects from the comfort of their homes. Each school shared their program online to continue honoring veterans, even though they could not gather with them this year.