L. Michael Hatch: Join me at Homestead on Veterans Day; its about respect

To The Daily Sun,

A lot has happened since my fellow veterans came back from Viet Nam and were called every name in the book, spit on and anti-war demonstrations all over our great country. Today, things are turning the tide, one beach at a time. 

It is really rewarding to see fellow veterans shake hands and be welcomed home. And more and more people see your veterans hat and say thanks for your service. My best personal story is, after coming out of Hannaford in Bristol, heading to my truck, a lady comes running over to my truck, She said, sir would mind if my Don shook your hand, He was 7-years-old.

I going to admit a few tears came to my eyes. We know it's not over but it is so rewarding to see things changing for the right reason.

This leads to why I am writing this letter. I am not sure how many people are aware that every Veterans Day the Homestead Restaurant in Bristol and Frattelos in Laconia put on a free prime rib dinner for veterans on Veterans Day to honor all veterans. Over the years they have given out thousands of free meals.

I have been going for the last few years and if you aren't early the line, can be half the way down the parking lot. We see chain restaurants doing this all over the country, but this is not this is not the same this is friends and neighbors doing this to show Their respect by going the extra mile.

Last Thursday I went there for supper and as usual I thanked him for showing so much respect for us veterans. Needless to say after this year's, epidemic he won't be able to do it this year. I no more than sat down when I decided we  could pay him back by gathering at the Homestead on Veterans Day, buying our own meals to show to how much it means so much to us for that kind of respect.

Starting yesterday, I started talking to people about it and I am going to get in contact with Veteran's, Legions, VFW ,DAV, and ad many other veteran groups. I will also try to get in touch with some of our biker groups who do so many fundraiser for all kinds of special events. And lastly, you don't have to be a veteran, anyone who has a love for their great country and those who fought to keep our country free would be welcomed with open arms. We have less than a month. If you and your friends are interested email me at beponh@hotmail.com

I will need a approximate head count. Tell anyone You know, let's show the owner that the most important thing we have been fighting for is RESPECT.

L. Michael Hatch

Bristol