The American Legion in Gilbert held a family fun day to raise funds to prevent veteran suicide.

“It’s not a sad event.” explained Hector Ramirez, as it’s an opportunity for families to be together and enjoy each other.

Carbon County has the highest veteran suicide rate of the 67 counties in Pennsylvania. This is due in part to the rural location, which means far drives to mental health treatment. Limited job resources also contribute to the high rates. New initiatives are being launched such as Together With Veterans out of Jim Thorpe and St. Luke’s Victory for Veterans.

Be the One is “The American Legion’s top mission to reduce veteran and service member suicide by destigmatizing mental health and encouraging peer-to-peer support.” The program stresses early intervention and encouraging veterans to ask for help without fear or pride. Educating people about active listening and recognizing crisis warning signs is another important part of the program.

“We need to remove the stigmatization and have people able to get help. There is a free training to work with Be The One and anyone can take it,” said Legion commander Everett Shaver.

Some of the American Legion Riders took a 45-minute ride prior to the event.

“This is very close to my heart.” said Carolyn Lansender, whose husband Micheal is a Marine.

The Posting of the Colors began the event with Legion Commander Shaver, Leah Sharp, retired Navy, Eileen McQuire, Honor Guard.

The Battlefield Cross or Soldiers Ceremony was held which dates back to the Civil War when soldiers died and were buried with their rifle upright in the ground. A rifle, boots, dog tags and helmet were each carried in a line. The boots represent carrying service members that fought for our freedom. Dog tags identify soldiers so the name of the fallen is never forgotten and the helmet on top of the rifle notes a great sacrifice, and that the soldier will never fight again. Taps was played following this very moving ceremony.

There was also lots of fun to be had at the event. Ten-year-old Anaya Lookhoff, Broadheadsville, held a goat for the first time at the petting zoo.

After holding it she said, “I need one. I’m now going to ask my mom.”

Ten-year-old Aubrey Sestok, Kresgeville, enjoyed petting the Highland cow and said, “I never pet one before but I have three cats I pet.”

A basket raffle was held with prizes including a cowboy hat, gift certificates to local businesses and baskets with soaps and cosmetic products.

Quilts of Valor is a group of volunteers who make quilts and give them to veterans. This year the local group gave out 60 quilts at local nursing homes. The national organization started in 2003 and has given out 457,157 quilts as of August 2026. Operation Touch of Home, started in 2024, sends essential packages to troops overseas. They will be collecting items at the Brodheadsville Shoprite on Saturday, Nov. 21.

The band Suddenly Four entertained the crowd with rock and grunge music.

There was also plenty to please the palate with food trucks serving Italian, sweet treats and Beirut food including falafel and baklava. The American Legion sold lemonade with flavors including peach and blue raspberry.

It was a perfect day to support our military personnel, learn about resources and enjoy the fun and camaraderie.

If you’re in need of assistance dial 988 or text 838255 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.