By Beverly Litke
Library media coordinator

CHINA GROVE — China Grove Elementary School hosted its annual Veterans Luncheon Tuesday, Nov. 15. Thirty vets and their family members enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by chef Debbie Suggs.

Suggs donated the meal in memory of her father and in honor of Walter Elium, a World War II veteran and grandfather of China Grove Elementary teacher Stacy Frick. After an inspiring song performed by Eva Millsaps, some veterans shared a few interesting memories.

Attending were Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force veterans representing service in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and the War on Terror in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Charlotte Marine Corps League stood out with their bright red uniform jackets.

Among the group were 12 excited fourth-graders who were chosen to eat and visit with the vets. All the fourth grade classes spent time researching the history of Veterans Day, listening to guest veterans and writing letters of appreciation.

The entire student body listened to presentations in the multi-purpose room where Air Force and Army veterans showed uniforms, medals and other memorabilia. Outside in the parking lot, vets answered questions about a “deuce and a half” and showcased restored Jeeps from WWII and the Vietnam era.