Veterans thanked during annual visit

Members of the youth group offer thanks to Skip Stebbins. (Provided Photos)

On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, close to a dozen youth, from the Spencer Van-Etten area, personally thanked veterans during an annual effort. According to the organizer, Jonathan Brown, the youth visit area veterans each year, and personally thank them for their service.

Participating youth included Kira Brown, age 12; Kabrina Jayne, age 15; Andrew Wilson, age nine; Caden McFall, age 11; Daren McFall, age 14; Joey Ianniello, age 12; Ethan Ianniello, age 10; Mallory Wright, age 14; and Jason Corbin, age 17. The group was organized and accompanied by Jonathan Brown.

According to Brown, the youth worked hard baking cakes for the veterans and decorating them.

On Nov. 11, the youth, according to Brown, visited veterans at home and at the Legion in Candor and VFW in Owego, and walked up to them and stated, “Thank you for everything.”

Members of the youth group offer thanks to Rob Blaasch.

Brown stated that the youth look up to them as heroes.

One youth, according to Brown, went home and told their mother, “We got to meet real heroes today.”

Senator Fred Akshar recognized the efforts of these youth. In a letter to Brown, Akshar wrote, “It was inspiring to hear about your ‘cakes for veterans’ project over the weekend. I think it’s a wonderful way to honor veterans and teach the children about respecting those who made great sacrifices for our freedom.”

Likewise, Brown would like to thank Fran Rose, owner of Vibe Hair Studio in Van Etten for helping out. Brown would also like to thank Carter Kirk, Stephanie Williams, and Cindy Stebbens for their assistance.