Winter weather didn’t stop Lockport HS from honoring veterans

Despite the winter weather, about 100 veterans came out to Lockport Township High School’s east campus Feb. 4 for the school’s seventh annual Veterans Appreciation Night, according to a news release from organizers.

Mike Zaworski, founder and coordinator of the event, teaches social students at Lockport Township High School District 205.

As veterans checked into the event, they received a camouflage commemorative T-shirt, a McDonald’s gift card and refreshments. They also had the opportunity to sign and share thoughts in a memory book, according to the release.

While veterans waited outside the gym, the Tinley Park VFW Honor Guard stepped off followed by bagpiper Tom Gallas of the Chicago Police Dept Pipe and Drum Corps. The veterans then entered the gym under the arch of the Lincoln Way AFROTC Saber Team, according to the release.

Those in attendance applauded until the last veteran was inside. Five Korean War veterans were present as were veterans from the Vietnam era and individuals serving in the armed forces, according to the release.

Three World War II veterans received special acknowledgment: Joe Belman, 98; Rich Olund, 97; and Stanley Gubala, 96, according to the release.

Veterans and students together held the American flag while everyone who attended sang the National Anthem. Berlands of Joliet donated the large flag, according to the release.

At the ceremony’s conclusion, veterans and their families and friends were invited to stay for the basketball game as the guests of the high school.