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Sam Pyritz, Tom Miller, Lorren and David Quackenbush at Sunday’s dinner.
John Hernandez | Miner
Exalted Ruler and World War II Veteran Pete Tovar enjoys a delicious dinner. John Hernandez | Miner
San Manuel Miner
On Sunday, Nov. 23, the San Manuel Elks Lodge #2007 hosted their annual Veterans – Community Thanksgiving Dinner. The free meal included turkey, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy and much more. Elk’s member and retired Marine Master Sergeant John Eckert led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the benediction given by Chaplain Jack Warren. Tom Miller, a veteran and active Elks member, asked everyone to give thanks for and think about our men and women serving in the military around the world. He asked for a moment of silence for those veterans who gave their lives so we can have the freedom we have today.
Arizona South Vice-President David Quackenbush from Tucson Lodge #385 and his wife Lorren attended the dinner and helped serve everyone. They received a nice gift basket from the San Manuel Elks. Volunteers both young and old from the community helped with the dinner and clean up. San Manuel Lodge Exalted Ruler Pete Tovar was in attendance. Pete is a World War II veteran. He served in the Navy from 1943 – 46 in the Pacific aboard the USS Escambia (AO-80) a fleet oiler. The San Manuel Elks Lodge has served the community for over 50 years. They are currently accepting donations to provide Christmas gifts for our veterans at the V.A. Hospital in Tucson.
John Hernandez lives in Oracle. He is retired and enjoys writing and traveling. He is active in the Oracle Historical Society. He covers numerous public events, researches historical features and writes business/artist profiles.
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