NORTH WEBSTER - People who have a heart for supporting the troops and veterans were recognized Saturday night.
North Webster American Legion Post 253 sponsored "Heroes Night" at the Legion. It was the first year for the event.
Each recipient received a plaque and a congressional letter from Allison McSherry, Congressman Mark Souder's representative.State Senators Bill Ruppel and Ryan Mishler presented the recipients with state legislative certificates.
"I thank those who have supported our troops and veterans because without them fighting for our freedom we would not be here today," Ruppel said.
Harry Kyler, Post 253 commander, said the purpose of the night was to recognize people and organizations who have acknowledged and supported the sacrifices veterans and the troops have made.
Kyler received an award for being commander of the eighth largest post in Indiana. The award was presented by Steve Short, adjutant of the American Legion Department of Indiana. Kyler also was recognized for being a commander of the only post in Indiana with more than 1,000 members.
"It's important to recognize the individuals who support our troops and veterans because I don't think they are recognized enough," Kyler said.
Ted Routh, who has been a Post 253 member for 28 years, said he was glad those who support troops were recognized.
"They have worked very hard for the Legion and deserve recognition for the work they have done," Routh said.
Warrior Patriot Awards were presented for recipient's commitment to supporting troops and veterans. Recipients included Russ Bauer, John Salmons, SFC Edward A. Smith, Staff SGT. Michael Grimm, U.S. Marine Corps, and Stephen Sviatko, Scott Vankirk and Joe Chacon, all of Golden Corral.
Warrior Patriot Awards also went to Larry Shock, Post 253 Honor Guard, Kathy Ross, Post 253 Women's Auxiliary and George and Charlie Tubbs, Lake City Honda-Kawasaki.
Mike Elwood received the former Post 253 Commander Award and Larry Shock received the Post 253 Honor Guard Award from Young Tigers Football and Post 253.
