They were able to mingle with each other as they were treated to a scrumptious breakfast.

For veterans, the fifth annual Honorary Brunch and Entertainment Gala held Friday at the Village at Palmerton represented the best of both worlds.At least that was the opinion of Vietnam veteran Dan Bauer of Palmerton, who served in the U.S. Army from 1966-67."The food is great, and it's nice to see all these veterans come out from all services," said Bauer, 70.Douglas Hawk, of Saylorsburg, a Vietnam veteran who served in the U.S. Army from 1969-70, said he couldn't agree more."It's a pretty neat thing to see all the old veterans," said Hawk, 65. "I think it's great that the Village does this."His wife, Brenda Hawk, was equally complimentary of the event."We're very appreciative," Brenda said. "And we're very appreciative for the help my mother gets through the VA."Vietnam veteran Charles Treskot of Palmerton, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1969-72, said he was glad he attended."It's great to be up here with my mother-in-law, and that they are supporting veterans," said Treskot, 65. "And to see everyone mingling and having a good time."His wife, Polly Treskot, said she and her husband were glad to be invited."My mother gets help from the VA," Polly said. "It's very nice to be here."After brunch, attendees gathered in front of the fireplace to hear speaker Henry Desrosiers, director of Carbon County Veterans Affairs.Desrosiers told the audience he was privileged and proud to be a part of the event."We are gathered here today to recognize all of our honored veterans," Desrosiers said. "It is up to us that every veteran feels that his or her service to our country is appreciated."Desrosiers then read a copy of a poem he said he received from the VFW Post 294, Penn-Kidder Post.The poem is entitled "On Veterans Day."A serious concern Desrosiers shared is that our country is drastically losing our World War II veterans.To lighten the mood, music was provided by entertainer Ken Purcell.In all, there were about 40 resident/community veterans in attendance, according to Norma Kunkel, director of Marketing and Admissions at the Village.Kunkel said the event is a way to show our appreciation to our veterans."It's to honor our veterans for serving to preserve our freedom," she said. "They sacrificed a lot, so a little celebration in their honor is a wonderful thing."