Veterans of all ages received a special treat on Friday as a token of appreciation for their valiant service to our country.

The Memorial Day Veterans Brunch held at The Palmerton honored veterans with a complimentary meal, along with a history of the holiday.

Clearnce Weber, director of admissions, The Palmerton, relayed a verbal account of Memorial Day.

Weber, an Air Force veteran who served 12 years, told his fellow comrades that on May 5, 1868, the Grand Army of the Republic, led by Gen. John A. Logan, issued General Order No. 11, formally establishing Decoration Day (later known as Memorial Day). The order designated May 30 as a day for the nation to remember and decorate the graves of those who died in the Civil War.

“This is important to me,” Weber said. “It is very important to remember what has happened, and to remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.”

State Rep. Doyle Heffley then took his turn and praised Christine LeClair, director of Veterans Affairs for Carbon County, whom he said has gone above and beyond.

Heffley then thanked the veterans for their service.

“I always say we stand on the shoulders of our servicemen and women,” Heffley said. “Freedom isn’t free; (and never forget) what you did to keep this country strong and safe.”

LeClair then spoke about various veteran-related topics.

She discussed the benefits that are available to veterans who stay at The Palmerton.

She also shared the list of veterans-related events that will be held throughout the county the rest of the year.

Afterward, LeClair said it was great to be able to bring observances such as these to our veterans, as well as to inform them of the benefits they may be able to receive.

U.S. Army veteran Jack Woginrich of Palmerton said he was appreciative of the event.

“It’s a nice event,” Woginrich said. “It’s always good to be remembered.”

U.S. Navy veteran Norman Sutters of Palmerton said it’s important to understand what happened years ago.