The importance of family and the significance of giving back to our community were visible Thursday during the American Legion Post 927’s annual Thanksgiving dinner.

“We do it for the community, for the veterans, and those who do not have anywhere to go,” said Joanne Horn, president of the Ladies Auxiliary.

During the four-hour event, the 30 volunteers expected to feed about 200 to 225 people in their Gilbert hall.

Families ate together at beautifully decorated tables.

“It’s my fourth year here. I love the stuffing. It has always been my thing,” said Ralph Colatrella, of Kunkletown, who was dining alongside his brother, Nick Colatrella.

Nine-year-old Josie Fetterman and her family served helpings of ham, turkey, and side dishes to those in line at the buffet table. Her father, Joshua Fetterman Sr., is active Navy and Josie is a Girl Scout, so community service comes naturally in their family.

Preparations began Monday behind the scenes in the kitchen, when Brett Moyer and three other cooks started with the 22 donated turkeys and four hams. The cooks and other helpers also made stuffing, cranberry sauce, corn, green beans, and sweet potatoes.

“We all work together. We are a team,” said cook Hank Miller, who served 11 years in the Marines and joined the legion six months ago.

Moyer, who served in the Navy and a Legion member for 26 years, said the four days of cooking and the event itself all ran smoothly. He is proud to be part of such a dedicated group of volunteers.

The Ladies Auxiliary handled the desserts, drinks, set up, and decorating the hall.

“My whole family came from a military background. I love to give back to the community, they deserve it – especially the veterans,” said Eileen McGuire, vice president of the Ladies Auxiliary, as she served iced tea to attendees.

McGuire’s father and brothers were in the military. She regrets not joining the Navy in 1971.

“I mentioned joining to my mom and she said no,” said McGuire, during her second year helping at the dinner.

She listened to her mother, unlike her brother who joined the military first, and then told the family right before he was deployed.

Instead of a military career, she was a school teacher for a bit and worked for the Prosecutor’s Office in Elizabeth, New Jersey.

Cameron Wilson, a Legion member who served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, said to “express our sincere thanks to everyone who donated to our Thanksgiving Dinner.”