The Odessa Record -

The Veterans Day dinner sponsored by VFW Post #7395 and American Legion Post #105 was held Monday evening in the social hall of Heritage Church. Legion member Bob Kissler was emcee for the event, assisted by John Hardt who explained the symbolism of the POW/MIA table and read the list of awards for years of service. Receiving five-year membership pins were Tony Quilici and Daniel Quilici. A ten-year pin went to Steve Siegel. David Nixon was awarded his 15-year pin. William Herrell of Wilson Creek was awarded a 25-year pin. Pins for 35 years of continuous membership went to Jerry Jasman of Marlin and Allen Kuest of Odessa. Ray Roloff of Wilson Creek received a 50-year pin. Odessa residents Don Haase was awarded a 60-year pin and Bob Zimbelman a 65-year pin.

Terrie Schmidt-Crosby

Gunner Smith receives one of several special quilts made by Lise Ott and JoEllen Wollman to honor our Veterans.

Hardt also announced that two members had passed away this past year, Robert Lubold, Jr. and Dale Jacobson.

Pastor Pierce Chadburn of Zion-Emmanuel Lutheran Church was the main speaker for the evening, providing the Biblical viewpoint on the duties of the soldier.

Steve Siegel read a poem of his own composition, followed by the awarding of special quilts made by Lise Ott and JoEllen Wollman, owners of Experience Quilts!, to local veterans in appreciation of their service to the country. Receiving the quilts were Seth Smith, Steve Siegel, Gunner Smith, Jerry Jasman, Jerry Schafer, Danny Quilici, Tony Quilici, Chuck Van Hevel and Allen Kuest.

The meal was prepared and served by a group of volunteers and consisted of baked ham, scalloped potatoes and candied yams, along with potluck salads, other side dishes and desserts.