Mustello hosts event at packed Legion hall
State Rep. Marci Mustello, R-11th, hosted a well-attended veterans luncheon at the American Legion Post 778 in Lyndora on Wednesday.
The Legion was crowded with veterans and their guests at the event, where they were recognized and thanked for their service.
Mustello said she held the event once before in 2019, and thought it was fitting to it have again.
“This is the main event I wanted to do coming out of COVID,” Mustello said. “It's a thanks for their service, and a thanks to the guests they brought for their sacrifices as well.”The event began with a presentation of the flag, and a rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” by the Butler High School Choir. During lunch, multiple students performed classic songs such as “Make You Feel My Love” and “Can't Help Falling in Love.”
Jondavid Longo, mayor of Slippery Rock and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, said he was blown away by the amazing turnout. He gave a speech that expressed gratitude for veterans and a call to action for all non-veterans. “I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for continuing to serve after you leave the service,” Longo said. “For those who aren't veterans, let's make sure vets are remembered every day for their service and sacrifice.”
Mustello recognized veterans who served in Korea, Vietnam and the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Operation Desert Storm. Two veterans in attendance, Arcangelo Carosi and Robert Summerville, served in World War II and were recognized.To end the event, the Butler High School Choir sang the anthems of each military branch and veterans stood when their song was played. The attendees clapped and sang along heartily.
Gary Neely, a Marine veteran who served two tours in Vietnam, said he was encouraged by the event.“It's encouraging to see so many people come out,” Neely said. “I didn't know there were this many (veterans) around here.”Mustello praised her team and the Legion for their help in making the event a success. “It's a good thank-you for (vets') sacrifices, so we can enjoy the freedom and democracy that we do,” Mustello said.
