Columbia (WACH)- A Columbia veteran’s medical center was the host of a night of fellowship celebrating combat veterans and their families. An "Evening of Heroes" offered the chance for military members to share combat stories and reunite with those they served with during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
Barbara Wessinger and her husband enjoyed a night out with the other military families.
"It's a good opportunity for him to meet some of the people he served with in 2003 in Iraq. We haven't been able to catch up with them," says Wessinger.
VA spokeswoman Priscilla Creamer says the night is about combat vets swapping war stories while getting to know each other better.
Creamer says, “We want them to have a nice relaxing evening with their families and meet each other and form some bonds."
Creamer says the time overseas is hard, and it's important for veterans like Wessingers husband to feel comfortable returning to everyday life here in the states.
"It's working with your military family, getting along with them is essential," Wessinger tells us.
The Cayce woman says it's stressful when he's deployed and often feels like she's there with him.
"It's difficult when they go away especially the army when they are gone for 18 months or a year." But she says events like this provide needed support during difficult times.
“Evening of Heroes” is sponsored by the Dorn VA Medical Center. If you would like to contribute to similar events please call 803-776-4000, extension 6134.
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