Drive-thru has been a vital tool for many restaurants to keep serving customers during the pandemic.

It is also being used to help continue the traditional meals honoring the country’s veterans on Veterans Day.

“It’s still a great thing that we are able to get everybody lunch and do something great for them,” said Rachael Timm, marketing director for Heritage Hill Senior Community in Weatherly.

Heritage Hill was unable to hold their annual Veterans Day luncheon due to social distancing restrictions. The luncheon recognizes their own residents as well as other veterans who live in the surrounding community.

On Tuesday, they held a curbside pickup so veterans from the area could still be recognized.

Staff distributed 45 meals to veterans, as well as medals as a thank you for their service.

State Rep. Doyle Heffley’s office created certificates thanking them as well.

Veterans look forward to the special events and promotions that take place each November honoring their service. This year, many events are canceled, and some veterans have had to pass up others to stay safe and healthy.

The Heritage Hill veterans luncheon is one of those traditions that veterans look forward to attending.

“I don’t know how many years they’ve been doing it but I’ve been here for most of them,” said Dave Coll, a Vietnam War veteran from Packer Township.

Usually, the program includes speakers and students from Weatherly Area School District singing patriotic songs.

The event also means a lot to the staff at Heritage Hill, so they were happy they could provide it in some form despite social distancing restrictions. They’ve had to adjust everything from visits to bingo to accommodate social distancing.

The community has had no positive COVID-19 tests throughout the pandemic.

On Wednesday, the Heritage Hill residents who served in the military will receive the same honors that were given out on Wednesday, ensuring that veterans still get recognized despite the effects of the pandemic.

“We have to practice social distancing, but we are still going to be able to honor them,” Timm said.