Brackett American Legion serves a dinner to bring family, friends and comrades together
BRACKETT, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX)—Eight years ago, US Veteran Doug Thorson joined the American Legion for one purpose. Thorson explains, 'I thought it was a wonderful opportunity for me to help my fellow veterans being in an organization that was veteran-based and assisting.'
The American Legion is helping fellow veterans for Military Appreciation Month by thanking those who served our country and their families with a classic chicken dinner at Post 550 in Brackett. Legion member Brenda McMahon says, 'It's a well-received thing. The veterans get to eat free, the public is welcome, and it is a free-will donation for them.'
This is the American Legion's 3rd year hosting the event, and it has grown every year. Thorson says, 'As we look around, we can see we have a full load of people here and that is wonderful to see. The building has plenty of people in here and a lot of camaraderie and a matter of touching base with we're here for everyone.'
This simple chicken dinner is all about letting veterans know they are appreciated. Post 550 Squadron Leader and member of the Sons of the Legion, Dave Dohms, explains, 'Just so they know they are recognized and not forgotten about, and just try to bring everybody together.'
The dinner goes further than that. It also works as a way To spread the American Legion's message. Thorson says, 'It is about the outreach to the veterans and how we can assist. It is not about us it is about you.'
For the American Legion, the local community is essential. McMahon says, 'Without the community's help. We couldn't do this. We couldn't get to give back. We couldn't do anything we do.'
The Legion says around 300 people came for the chicken dinner. They plan to continue hosting this feast as a way of giving back to veterans and the community that helped them.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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