Area veterans invited to White Pines Veterans Day Breakfast

U.S. Armed Forces veterans residing in Bensenville and their immediate families will be recognized with a free breakfast on Friday, Nov. 11, at the White Pines Golf Club.

Bensenville Park District, Village of Bensenville and Fenton High School are joining in the annual Veterans Day Breakfast at 9 a.m. at the golf club, 500 W. Jefferson, Bensenville.

State Senate President Don Harmon (39th District) and state Rep. Kathleen Willis (77th District) are scheduled to join Bensenville Village President Frank DeSimone, Fenton High School District 100 Superintendent James Ongtengco, Bensenville Park District Board President Rich Johnson and Executive Director Joseph Vallez in saluting Bensenville's veterans.

"Serving in the armed forces is one of the most selfless and courageous things someone can do for our country," Vallez says. "We are pleased to celebrate the service of our local veterans, and joining together to thank them with a free Veterans Day Breakfast at White Pines is one way we can do that."

In addition to recognition by the dignitaries, highlights of the breakfast include a presentation by retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Ryan Yantis as well as three winners of the Defending Freedom Essay contest from Fenton High School.

Yantis' military background includes more than 22 years of service as a cavalry officer and army spokesman. He was deployed in more than 33 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa in addition to working in the Pentagon during the Sept. 11 attack.

Although the event is free for resident veterans and their families, preregistration is required by Friday, Nov. 4, at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St., or by calling (630) 766-7015.

Other members of the community, including nonresident veterans, are welcome to attend the breakfast for $14 per person. Visit BvilleParks.org for more information.