To the editor:
Veterans Day has always been a proud day in our family.
When our children were young we'd take them to Peabody Square and watch the parade and celebration at City Hall. But now they're grown, so my husband and I decided it was time to begin a new tradition. My husband suggested lunch at Applebee's.
On Nov. 11 Applebee's honored our veterans by saying thank you with a free lunch. The place was packed with veterans — men and women, some in uniform, but most wearing a hat or shirt that identified their particular branch of the service — and all had a story to share.
And because schools are also celebrating Veterans Day, children were there as well, listening and engaging in conversation with our unsung heroes.
As we left, my husband (a veteran) and I thanked each for serving our country. I was overwhelmed with pride and grateful for the opportunity to share time with these men and women. What an unexpected and fantastic afternoon.
Again, thank you to our veterans and to Applebee's for making our experience the next best thing to a parade.
Ruth Weick
Peabody
