Dear Editor,

The Richmond County Service Commanders Council has made attempts in the past to “get off the ground”. Once again, we are making an appeal to local veterans and service organizations to join forces to benefit the community. The goals are simple: work together to raise funds for the individual service organizations and provide assistance for those in need within the community. Ideally, veterans should join their service group, however in these hard times, paying dues may add to a financial burden. Veterans are encouraged to volunteer to participate in the activities. Additional help is needed and deeply appreciated. There is no political agenda and petty differences are set aside to achieve success. The service organizations contribute to the community by 1) placing flags on grave sites on Memorial Day, 2) honoring veterans with a Memorial Day program, 3) to help with Back Pack Pals to provide needy school age children with food over the weekend, 4) visit veterans in nursing homes during holidays, scheduling an ice cream social and providing words of encouragement, 5) participating in the Seaboard Festival, 6) holding various fund raising events such as raffles, 7) Toys for Tots, 8) Motorcycle rides to raise monies for the organizations. The Council meets the 4th Monday of each month at the Rockingham VFW at 7 pm. Volunteering for just one hour is a simple goal and the rewards are priceless.

Patricia Davis

Hamlet