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Sarver family tosses kettle corn to passing troops

The Hanson family of Sarver was caught tossing free bags of kettle korn to passing soldiers during a festival Sunday in Chambersburg.

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. — A contingent of soldiers passing through here got a free snack Sunday thanks to the generosity of a Butler County family.

Hanson's Original Kettle Korn of Sarver had their tent set up to sell kettle korn during the city's annual IceFest.

When Harlan Hanson saw a lineup of large Army vehicles slowly approaching on Route 30, he had an idea — he tossed up a bag of kettle korn to a soldier standing at the vehicle's hatch.

“You want to say 'thanks' to these guys every time you see them, so this was a way to say thanks,” Hanson said.

The Hanson family continued to fill up bags until they had given out about 10, one to each vehicle.

Kelly Portela of Maryland happened to see the Hansons in action and snapped a photo. They did it out of kindness, not for recognition, she said.

“This is truly one of the most beautiful acts of kindness I have ever witnessed in my life,” she said.

Hanson said that about 15 members of the family pitch in with the business, which travels around the region to different festivals and events.

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