More than 120 members of the community and members of the state and Lunenburg Post 9954 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) took part in a special banquet Saturday to recognize and honor area veterans and the achievements of the post, which celebrates its 69th anniversary. Those in attendance included Victoria Town Manager Rodney Newton, Lunenburg County Sheriff Arthur Townsend and Delegate Tommy Wright among others. Post Commander Claude Tomlinson spoke about the post’s achievements, including a recent visit from Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief William Doc Schmitz, the recent installation of the flag disposal basket at the Sergeant Cornelius (Bud) Arvin Memorial and honoring the last remaining charter member of the post, Robert Tomlinson. The post was founded in 1949. “It is truly an honor for me to recognize my uncle, Robert Tomlinson,” Tomlinson said. The Post also presented awards to its Auxiliary Post, remembered several members of the post who passed away in the past year and presented awards to various members of the community. Those awarded included Barbara Christman with the auxiliary, Greg Wallace with the Victoria Police Department and Jenny Hoye, Julie Dalton, Hattie Whittle and Jean Kunath with Lunenburg County Public Schools. Post Chaplain Thomas Clegg honored Vietnam veterans missing in action by reading a segment, “The White Table,” where aspects of the table seek to honor the pain and bravery of the veterans and their loved ones. The post also honored Voices of Democracy winners. The second place winner, Fatima Lara Juarez, read her essay during the event. Juarez described the brave actions of World War I and World War II General George S. Patton, particularly during the Battle of the Bulge, considered the largest battle fought by the U.S. Army. She also described her and her family’s experience in the U.S. after coming from an area of Mexico affected by violence. Fighting back tears, the junior at Central High School said respect for veterans and unity with others was needed now more than ever. “Let us not forget all of the brave men and women who have served and are serving for our great nation,” Juarez said. “My fellow American citizens, let us come together strongly as one to overcome all of the hatred and selfish acts of others. If we all work together and strive for more, anything is possible.” The audience gave a standing ovation after the reading.