It was with a great deal of gratitude that CountryMark employees presented a check for $2,255 this week to eight members of the Owen Dunn, Post 5, Mt. Vernon, Ind., American Legion.

“It’s hard to describe the respect and gratitude we have for these men and women who put their lives on hold to serve our country and defend the freedoms we all enjoy every day,” said CountryMark representative Gene Grabert. 

After the check presentation the veterans shared stories with the CountryMark employees about their military experiences. 

“I was only 17 when I enlisted,” said Veteran Steve Cummings. “It was physically demanding work, but I was proud to do it.” Cummings served in the Vietnam War. 

Veteran Dale Rickert added that it’s not always easy to talk about the wars they served in, but they know the world is a better place because of the service of American soldiers.

More than 500 veterans are members of the Mt. Vernon American Legion, and according to local legion Member Phil Handel, a number of Mt. Vernon American Legion Members have been employed over the years at CountryMark.

“We’re very familiar with CountryMark and appreciate their support of the Mt. Vernon American Legion,” said Handel. 

The Mt. Vernon veterans plan to use the CountryMark donation to buy heavy presentation coats for wintertime graveside services. The CountryMark dollars will also help cover some of the cost of placing flags along the main avenues of Bellefontaine on the 4th of July and Veteran’s Day. 

The American Legion is the nation’s largest wartime veterans’ service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.

CountryMark employee Gene Grabert (pictured above in the white shirt) presented the check earlier this week to Mt. Vernon Legion Members Dale Rickert, Don Schneck, John Weir, Dennis Hargett, Max Dieterle, Steve Cummings, Don Oeth, Gene Grabert and Phil Handel.