Livermore Celebrates Veterans

The weather will be hot this weekend and Cedar Grove Community Church in conjunction with Celebration Community Church and Valley Bible Church Altamont are hoping residents and local veterans will come out for a barbecue.

The various organizations are hosting their second free BBQ in appreciation of Livermore veterans and first responders Sept. 7, 11:30 a.m. at Cedar Grove at the Corner of "L" Street and College Avenue and will feature Tri-tip and chicken, live music, veteran speakers and veteran groups, including the Livermore American Legion available to discuss resources for those attending.

"We want to give thanks for what veterans have accomplished for this country," says Livermore resident and Vietnam-era veteran Paul Alexander. "Give a little acknowledgement and hand out VA booklets explaining the functions of the various clinics."

Alexander, a Vietnam-era Marine Corp. veteran who served from 1973-1979 is trying to put together a resource list at this point so that it can be used by anyone in regards to what benefits are out there. This event aims at offering these resources and information to the local veteran community.

"It's just a charitable service we are trying to do for our community," Turnquist says. "How many times do we send things overseas? Livermore has a demographic that we can cater to veterans in need."

According to the California Department of Veterans, there are nearly two million veterans living in the state. Of these, approximately 19,000 are homeless.

"That’s a disgrace," he says.

World War II and Korean veterans will be in attendance as well as members from the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department and Livermore Police Department.

"I’ve been in the system since 1979 and this is the first time the VA have openly expressed that they need help," Alexander says. "Whatever they require and whatever we can give, that’s what we are about doing."

For more information please contact Cedar Grove at 925-447-2351 or call 510-207-8937.  

Interested in helping out? Contact Bill Turnquist at 510-207-8937.

Please tell a Vet you may know about this BBQ.