But that’s not all they got during the parties.

Volunteers helped with activities such as reading poems, playing bingo for prizes, passing out cookies and singing songs, such as Bing Crosby’s “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”

Kathleen Obermiller, president of the Loup City Auxiliary, said seeing those smiling faces is what the Auxiliary is all about.

“I guess it’s giving back to what they gave,” she said. “And the women did their sacrifice, too.”

Members enjoyed the efforts.

“It was a special day for everyone,” member Arlene Dunning said.

Wilma Kellogg, another member, agreed. She said it was one of the nicest parties in recent years. Being around the Legion and Auxiliary members was good, too, she said.

“It brings back memories,” she said. “It’s nice to talk to people who have been through the same things you have.”

Obermiller said she hopes the good times remind veterans how important they are, especially at the holidays, when they might be far from family and friends.

“I think at the holiday season where you’re away from home ... it’s just bringing a little bit of home to them,” she said.

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