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American Legion Post 24 hosted a Christmas breakfast for approximately two dozen veterans Saturday morning in Greenville.

Liza Berrey, the first female Commandant of Post 24, organized the event.

Greenville Assistant Police Chief Anthony Bargainer, who also serves as Commandant of the Fort Deposit American Legion Post, attended and helped the veterans ring in the holiday season. 

“We were trying to get organized before COVID hit,” he said. “COVID has dealt us a blow. Now, we’re trying to revitalize everything and get people back in.”

Many local veterans participated in the breakfast, including Karen Owens, Diana Hall, Walter Parmer, and Rich Lewis.

“It’s a time to get out,” Hall said of the breakfast. “ It’s a time to have fellowship; just enjoy other people’s company. It’s a wonderful investment in the community.”

Everyone received a warm breakfast and an even warmer sense of camaraderie. 

Hall said knowing other people in the room knew and understood not only each other, but also each person’s experience, brought many not only joy, but a feeling of happiness.

“I think it’s wonderful that the vets have this place where they aren’t alone,” she said.

Berrey, who spent seven years in the Navy and comes from a military background, was elected the first female commander of the American Legion Post 24 back in July.

She feels that this is not only an honor, but a responsibility; to her fellow veterans and the community.

As soon as she was eligible to join the American Legion, Berrey joined.

“I joined the national group first,” Berrey said. “When I found out there was a local organization, I joined that.”

Berrey hoped to expand not only the number of members in Post 24, but to help the Legion have a bigger footprint in the community.

“Even if a veteran belongs to another Legion, they are welcome to come and visit our group if they like,” Berrey said.

The Legion is a place for individual families to come, and become a member of a much bigger family.

“There’s no better time than Christmas to come together, sit and have a warm meal with friends and family,” Berrey said.

American Legion Post 24 meets the first Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. 

For more information, follow the American Legion Post 24 on Facebook at Post 24 American Legion.