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A Christmas for disabled veterans

Steubenville American Legion and ladies auxiliary host event

By JULIE STENGER 8 min read

STEUBENVILLE -- Veterans. They are honored on Veterans Day. Remembered on Memorial Day.

But unfortunately, there aren't many additional holidays on the calendar which places too much emphasis on them during the year.

How easy it becomes to forget the men and women who have endured a life which most of us could never even begin to fathom. The ones who have seen war. The ones who almost did not get the opportunity to come home. Those who never had the chance to come home.

Just how many of us actually think to remember American veterans during the Christmas season?

How many of us take the time to stop amidst the holiday shopping, baking and decorating to show our appreciation to those who have served and sacrificed for us? The realistic response is that not too many of us do.

Fortunately, there are those who always find the time to focus on this country's veterans.

They include those at the Steubenville American Legion Post No. 33 and its auxiliary unit.

Those at the American Legion did more than just remember, Thursday. Members, along with several volunteers, hosted a Christmas party for disabled veterans.

The veterans reside at seven area nursing homes and were brought to the post building on North Fifth Street by activities providers and caregivers.

Auxiliary President Cindy Longwell explained the post has always attempted to have a Christmas party for local disabled veterans, but because of the COVID pandemic, the annual event had to be canceled the past two years.

This is the first opportunity the legion has had to bring back the celebration. In doing so, they have given these veterans a special gift. It is a gift which allows every one of these servicemen and women to know how much they are appreciated and cared about. It is to let them know how we, as a community, are grateful for their putting their lives on the line so that we may live in a country that is free, and reside in a peaceful nation.

Those in the auxiliary unit prepared a homemade luncheon for veterans, caregivers and guests. The meal consisted of meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans and dinner rolls. In addition, officials completed the luncheon with a cake, decorated with an American flag and writing which stated, "Thank you for your service."

Prior to the luncheon, veterans were treated to a musical performance by those in the Hollywood Ukes. Members of the group include John Slivka on harmonica, Karen Sweitzer on guitar, Betty Schiappa, Jean Mazik, Ronda Seelig, Mary Alice Mitchell, Sherri Hall and Lisa Russell.

The performers played a variety of Christmas selections. Many in the audience joined in singing along to their playing, including Army veteran Joe Koniski.

Koniski, who served as an officer during his time in the service, sat at his facility's table, singing each and every hymn and carol that was played throughout the day. His vocalizing did not require the need for a microphone, as he could be heard above the crowd. His enthusiastic singing and shouts of how beautiful the selections were, brought smiles to those throughout the dining hall.

Koniski applauded every performance and announced how much he loved the songs, the people in attendance and even Santa Claus.

He appeared to have made a strong impact on those around him. His delight and sheer happiness is an example of why the legion does what it does for its veterans.

Fourth-grade pupils from Wells Academy provided additional entertainment, singing a number of lesser-known songs for the veterans. Each song featured movements and hand gestures which only added to the enjoyment of the show. More than 50 children took part, and were led under the direction of Wells music teacher, Glory Dami.

Teachers Alyssa Potenzini, Katie Mills and Sara Carrocci were grateful to be a part of the day's celebration. They explained the school has always performed songs and skits for the American Legion's Christmas party to honor veterans.

Potenzini noted that although there was a couple of years the party had to be canceled because of COVID, there was never any doubt that the children would perform for veterans again, if they were asked.

Selections sung by the Wells Academy children included, "If I Were a Reindeer," "A Marshmallow World," "Hot Cocoa," "Santa Claus is on His Way," and "That Special Time of Year."

The children practiced their performances for a little more than a month, teachers stated, adding they worked hard to make the day special for the veterans.

Jefferson County Sheriff Fred Abdalla stated he was honored to have been invited to the Christmas party, adding that his father always looked forward to taking part in an event which honored veterans.

Abdalla said he could tell that his father was there with him on Thursday, stating, "Being here with all of you makes me feel my father's presence."

Every veteran in attendance was then invited to the sheriff's office Friday for a luncheon.

"This is a wonderful gift to have the kids coming down and spending time with our veterans," Abdalla commented. He noted the importance that during this time of the year, we celebrate with both our children and our veterans.

"Christmas is a time to really think about our children but it's also a time to think about our veterans," he said. "If it wasn't for their service and the sacrifices they made for our country, we wouldn't be celebrating Christmas and the holidays so peacefully."

"Growing up, my father always made our Christmases so wonderful," Abdalla added. "But he also instilled in me and my sisters how important it was to remember our veterans. And I remember growing up in Stratton, at Christmas time we'd go around and he would take cookies and stuff and something extra to our veterans."

He concluded by expressing to the veterans how without their service to our country, he would not be here, nor would any of us. It is because of them that we are all here living freely and in peace.

Abdalla and Marine Cpl. Kaleb Waggoner helped to distribute a holiday bag of gifts to each of the 38 veterans in attendance. The seven nursing homes represented this year were: Catherines Care Center, Belmont Manor, Carriage Inn, Lancia Vista Villa, the Meadows of Cadiz, Country Club Manor and Sienna Woods.

Stanley Coffmen is a 97-year-old veteran of World War II. Speaking on his behalf was Dorene Feist, activities provider for Country Club Manor.

Feist said Coffmen enjoys playing the guitar, keyboard and an instrument that is a cross between a violin and guitar.

"He enjoys everything," Feist said. "He still walks very well and is always happy. He always has a smile on his face. And he wants to wish everyone a merry Christmas."

Bob McGuiness was a Cpl. in the Navy. He took part in the Korean War and said he was proud to serve our country.

"This event is very nice," McGuiness said of the American Legion party. He was glad he could attend the event with those at the Country Club Manor.

He reflected back to his time in the military, commenting that if he had it to do over again, he would.

"I'd be right back in the service," he said.

"There is just too much fighting going on and they are killing our young people. And that's the thing -- they just don't care. I think it should stop, but I don't think it will any time soon. It will stop when the good Lord is ready. Then it will stop," McGuiness concluded.

Steve Coil was in the Navy as well. He said he thought Thursday's luncheon and presentation was nice and he was pleased he could attend.

Coil showed the gift bag he received from Longwell and her husband, Mike. Mike Longwell was a Cpl. in the Marine Corps 52 years ago and volunteered during the event.

When Coil was shown his gifts, he noted how nice they were. Items included flannel pajamas, a fleece throw and a word search and coloring book with crayons.

Koniski perhaps summed up the day perfectly. He said he enjoyed it and it made him feel good.

"I try to do nice for all the people," Koniski said. And upon his leaving the Post 33 building, he continuously applauded, singing his own song of thanks.

"You absolutely made my day," he said.

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