We the People: Forgotten Vets Christmas bags

DAPHNE, Ala. (WALA) - A holiday tradition continues on the Eastern Shore as the American Legion Auxiliary Unit #199 in Fairhope makes sure area veterans are not forgotten. In this week’s -- “We the People” -- FOX 10’s Lee Peck shows us the holiday effort that’s bringing big Christmas smiles to those who’ve proudly served.

Visiting nursing homes on the Eastern Shore -- the ladies Auxiliary are delivering Christmas gift bags for veterans.

This year their “Forgotten Vets” program -- providing a little something extra -- 45 of the 76 veterans requesting branch service hats. It’s partially paid for by fundraising and donations. The American Legion Riders also chipping in to the effort.

“We have vets at nursing homes all across the Eastern Shore. So, we wanted to do something for those veterans at Christmas time,” said Linda Tipp, American Legion Auxiliary Unit #199 Eastern Shore Fairhope -- Forgotten Vets Chairperson.

The hats are a big hit for these veterans who are proud of their service.

As the ladies make the rounds -- it’s hard to tell who enjoys this more.

“You see the smiles and the brightness on their faces -- when they see somebody that is coming to honor them. So it’s been a real treat for us to do that,” explained Tipp.

Again, a big part of the effort comes from fundraising and donations. If you would like to help with the “Forgotten Vets” program click here.