'Because of them, we live free'

The human heart can be a big place, with plenty of room for the many things a person holds dear to them to reside.

For Pennsylvania State Sen. Judy Ward, veterans of all branches of the United State's armed forces occupy a place in her heart that swells with pride whenever she talks about her love and respect for those she not only considers heroes, but also family.

On Thursday evening, Nov. 7, Ward, for the fifth year in a row, hosted a dessert social for veterans at the American Legion Post 516 in Hollidaysburg.

Ward said organizing the annual social takes a bit of work, but it is rewarding when she see veterans from all eras come together to enjoy an evening together.

"In an event like this, there is protocol to follow, it is serious," she said. "But there is also a lot of fellowship where people can come and relax and just enjoy each other's company."

Ward's love and respect for America's veterans is an extension of the service many of her own family members have given to their country.

Her father, Patrick Farrell, a veteran of World War II, was a prisoner of war. Her son, Bill Ward Jr., served two tours as a member of the United States Navy. Her father-in law, G. William Ward, is also a Navy veteran. Ward said she had several cousins who fought in Vietnam, one of whom is listed on the permanent Vietnam Veteran's Memorial in Washington, D.C.

"The military is part of my life. It's part of my family," Ward said. "I just wanted to do something because veterans are so special. I wanted to have an event that honors them."

Ward said the veteran's social grows every year, and while a good many veterans have been coming from the beginning, there were some attending for the first time.

"Every year it gets better and better," Ward said. "We see a lot of familiar faces every year and some new ones. "This year is the largest one yet."

Former Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Samuel Hayes gave the keynote address and said citizens should never take for granted what America's veterans have done for them.

"The significance is that we are here as free Americans," Hayes said. "If it wasn't for the veterans it may be a different story line. Because of them, we live free."

Hayes also has high regard for the American Legion and the role they play not only in veteran affairs, but as the event host and commitment to their community.

"This American Legion Post 517 is a 'can do' outfit," Hayes said. "They are very active not only in veteran's circles, but they are active in the community as well. With this legion, you would expect this type of hospitality and this type of turnout."

Pennsylvania State Rep. Lou Schmidt, said it was a privilege for him to honor America's veterans, while saying it is time for those who served in Vietnam to get the respect they deserve.

"It is wonderful to be here with these veterans and to honor them," Schmidt said. "Many of them, when they came back from Vietnam were pilloried by the public. Vietnam veterans are some of the most patriotic and hard-fighting valorous men who ever lived. It's time to remember that and it's time to recognize and honor that."

Air Force veteran Lori McGrath-Varner said being discharged from active duty was not the end of her service to her country.

"In my mind, once you serve you are always serving," McGrath said.

Since her retirement from active duty, McGrath has become an advocate for homeless female veterans, a segment she says is the fastest growing population of homeless vets.

"Seventy percent of homeless women veterans are single mothers," McGrath said. "Two major factors I have seen as problematic for veterans transitioning out of the military are affordable childcare and veteran emergency housing with children."

McGrath said she has met with Ward on the matter and plans to continue to advocate for female veterans to find a solution.

"Events like this social have inspired me to become more aware of matters that affect veterans and their families, as well as our communities," McGrath said. "I hope to leave a legacy of patriotism behind as I campaign for veterans. Honor, remember and teach for others to pass along."

For Ward, the social was an opportunity to show her appreciation to those who have served.

"It really means so much to me to pay homage to all our military service men and women for the freedoms that all of them have provided us," she said.