Sharpsburg VFW welcomed vets for free dinner, paid tribute to those who didn't return

Sharpsburg Veterans of Foreign War hosted more than 50 veterans Nov. 11 for a free homecooked dinner to show appreciation and “pay humble tribute to the ones who did not return,” Commander Len Colaizzi said.

Post 709 at 1017 Main St. opened its doors to service members and their guests for a catered dinner. State Sen. Randy Vulakovich, R-Shaler, was the guest speaker and discussed legislative efforts for veterans. Post trustee Pat Corcoran made sure to call everyone's attention to a small table set for one, with a white tablecloth, single rose and a red ribbon.

“This table occupies a place of dignity and honor,” he said. “It symbolizes the fact that members are missing from our ranks, so we join together to pay humble tribute to them.”

The details of the table setting were purposeful and included an inverted glass because “they can't toast with us,” Colaizzi said.

“The single rose is for the blood they may have shed,” he added. “The slice of lemon on the plate reminds us of their bitter fate.”

A candle was lit on the table to symbolize a light of hope and the POW/MIA and American flags were hung to remind everyone of the sacrifice paid by some for freedom.

“We want veterans to know our doors are open and this is a place they can come if they need us,” Colaizzi said.

Tawnya Panizzi is a staff writer for the Tribune-Review.