Friday, Dec. 7, 2012, marked the 71st Anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, which accelerated the United States’ involvement in World War II.

To help commemorate this occasion, Cherokee county American Legion Post 62 honored local veterans who now reside in the Cherokee County Health and Rehabilitation Center with a Christmas Party.

Cherokee County Health and Rehab’s roster of veterans include James Stager, Samuel Powell, Travis Norris, Milton Nail, Robert McDonald, Marvin Markey, Manion Higdon, Ben Henderson, Clay Conner and Webby Coffee.

On hand for the party were World War II Veterans along with Korean and Vietnam War Veterans. In addition to food and fellowship, each veteran was presented with a Christmas present.

Cherokee County American Legion Post 62 Commander Daniel Kovacs said they gave the party to show local veterans they have not forgotten their brave sacrifices.

Volunteers served veterans while Christmas music played.

For those who were unable to attend, American Legion representatives and volunteers visited their rooms and presented patriotic ball caps with their names and service engraved upon them.

Also on display was an exhibit recently displayed at the Centre Wal Mart store, title A Grateful Nation: Honoring Our Heroes which included cards signed by local citizens and students thanking veterans for their service.

Other American Legion representatives taking part in the service included Division Commander David Hartline, a Cherokee County native; Division 13 Vice Commander Luke Christian, Post 62 Adjutant Kirk Day and American Legion Auxiliary President Pat Hartline.

Hartline said the American Legion hopes to make itself more visible in local communities and they plan to continue events such as this in the future.

They hope to continue their program to recognize local first responders, including fire fighters and law enforcement personnel and the service they provide in the community, which the Legion initiated last year, and other projects in the community he said.

Christine Higgins, activity director, Cherokee County Health and Rehabilitation Center, said the recent part was well received by veterans and their families.

“It was wonderful,” said Higgins.

“It meant a lot to them. They talked about it for days. We appreciate the American Legion for taking the time to recognize our veterans. They served the refreshments and did everything.

“Our veterans were so proud.”