Veterans + Applebee's = An Unexpected Blessing

Today we joined the throngs of people heading to Applebee's for a free meal for Veterans.  We went early hoping to beat some of the crowd, but found the parking lot overflowing.  Undeterred, we put our names on the list and squeezed into the waiting area.

Vets from every era continued to stream in the door.  Those from WWII to the current conflict all jostled together in a spirit of camaraderie.  Striking up a brief conversation with an elderly couple next to us, we decided to invite them to join us when our names were called.  They agreed and we shared a table with our newest friends! 

It was a great lunch (THANKS APPLEBEE'S!!) and a wonderful experience.  Walter and Vernon (yes that was her name) have been married 61 years, after tying the knot when he returned from the Korean "conflict."  They grew up in rural Kentucky, but lived most of their married years in El Paso, TX, staying there after Walter retired out of Fort Bliss.  Now they reside in San Antonio, moving here to be closer to their children and grand children.

We shared a little about ourselves, but mostly listened as Walter told their story.  It was a window into the mindset of a generation who made it through hard times by accepting their lot in life.  He said, "Military pay was not a lot, but I never had any checks that bounced."  Living within their means, making do with what the Good Lord gave them, and keeping a cheerful outlook seems to have worked for Walter and Vernon!  On hearing Steve and I have been married 38 years he told us, "You have some of the best years of life still ahead of you."  What a wonderful perspective on life.

As we paid our checks and were about to say goodbye, Walter expressed how much they had enjoyed the meal and getting to know someone new today.  When they decided to venture out to the free Veteran's lunch at Applebee's, they never expected to meet new friends.  Neither did we, but it was an unexpected blessing. 

As we walked to the car Steve said, "That was so much fun!  I'm so glad we did that!"  Thank you Lord, for that little nudge of the spirit -- telling us to suggest sharing our table.  This Veteran's Day has turned out to be much more than I asked or imagined!


James D. Williamson



Charles L. Dorner

Thank you to all our Veterans who have served our nation and protected our freedom.  We are thankful for our Dads who served - mine in Marines (Banana Fleet) and US Navy-shore patrol, and Steve's US Navy - Atlantic Fleet, D-Day hero! 

We give thanks for our wonderful son-in-law Skylar Linn, a US Navy Submariner! 



EM1 (SS) Skylar Linn

And I am especially thankful for my hero Stephen A. Dorner, US Army, 25th Infantry Div., Combat Medic, Vietnam Vet.  WELCOME HOME!