Jarvis Twp. Senior Center celebrates veterans at luncheon

by Josh Jones
Times Tribune Editor
jljones@timestribunenews.com

TROY — It was a packed building Thursday afternoon as approximately 120 people attended the Jarvis Township Senior Center luncheon at the Wiesemeyer Building as the event honored our nation’s heroes.

The luncheon specifically played host to the Airlifter Brass from the United State Air Force Band of MidAmerica, who discussed various things about their organization as well as performed several patriotic songs. Jarvis Township Senior Center Activity Director Wanda Todoroff welcomed everyone to the luncheon.

“What a great day we have to celebrate our veterans,” Todoroff said, “If you are a veteran and have a flag in your hand raise it up really high.”

Next Troy Fire Chief George May said a few words as he expressed his gratitude for our veterans. He said he has been in the position for about seven months and the community has been fantastic.

“Most importantly I want to thank all of our veterans past, present and future for everything you have done as well as for our community,” May said. “Thank you for everything you do, everything you have done and everything you continue to do. I can’t say thank you enough.”

Staff Sergeant Abigail Martin, non-commissioned officer in charge with Airlifter Brass from the United State Air Force Band of MidAmerica, spoke on the outreach they conduct which includes speaking/performing for music K-8 music departments, recruiting, honoring veterans at various events and more. Their motto is “Honor, Inspire, Connect.”

“We are all full time enlisted members of the Air Force, you win an audition just like any orchestra or band, go to basic training and the band falls under public affairs in the Air Force. So we go out and do community outreach events like this one, where we get out in our communities and just give free performances to give back to the communities that give us so much.”

Martin said that she has extended family that has served and it is honor to conduct performances like Thursday’s.

“It is a huge honor for us to come out and give back to our community, because without them there would be no us,” Martin said. “We are really happy to be here today to give this performance for everybody for Veterans Day.”