Guardsmen visit with local Veterans

Spc. Johnny Pyles, of the Forward Support Company 1140th Engineer Battalion, assists Veterans at the Missouri Veterans Home's Second Annual Resident Family Picnic.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- Soldiers of the Headquarter Company and Forward Support Company, 1140th Engineer Battalion in Cape Girardeau recently visited Veterans at the Missouri Veterans Home at their Second Annual Resident Family Picnic.

The Soldiers helped erect tents for the picnic and stayed to assist the Veterans and their families throughout the event.

"This is opportunity for us to show our appreciation for their service," said Staff Sgt. Heather Weimer, of the Forward Support Company. "They've contributed so much to history and the military that we serve in today."

The battalion participated in last year's picnic and their visit had been so successful that this year's date was selected specifically to coincide with a weekend when all the Guardsmen were in town for training.

Having the Soldiers visit is very rewarding for the Veterans and their Families, said Viviane Rains, the Home's Administrator

"I love seeing so many of the Soldiers sitting and chatting with the Veterans and listening to their stories," said Rains. "I know that the Veterans enjoyed meeting these young men and women who are now carrying on the tradition of service to their country."

The picnic means a lot to the Guardsmen too, who feel they get more out of the visit then they give.

The Soldiers take a lot of pride appearing in their uniforms and listening to the Veteran's stories, said Weimer.

"We get to hear stories about their service, from all components of the military not just Army. It's great," said Weimer. "It puts our service into perspective and you can see how the military has changed over the years."

Approximately 600 people attended the event this year and the Guardsmen look forward to next year.

For more information about the Missouri National Guard, please call 1-800-GoGuard or visit www.moguard.com.