MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - This past Sunday, veterans enjoyed a meal of appreciation for their service to our country.

Facilitated by Brookdale Meridian and Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, this event was just one way to say 'thank you' to the local veterans.

Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes General Manager Sean T. Allen said this was just one opportunity to give back.

"But, I feel it is always appropriate to give back in as many ways as we possibly can into the community," Allan said.

Veterans were honored with a pinning ceremony, a gun salute, and a performance from Knockin' on Heaven's Door Quartet.

Brookdale Meridian Sales Manager Nichole Beard said programs like this one are especially important.

"I think, you know, too often, we kind of forget why we're here, why we have what we have and I think it's very important to recognize the sacrifices that our veterans have made for us," Beard said.

An Air Force veteran, Walter House, served in New Guinea and the Philippines hopes programs similar to A Plate of Patriotism are learning experiences for the public.

"It's been a long time since I was in the service and a lot of people don't know anything about it,” House said. So, some of the younger people might learn something."