Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
It's not often someone gets to meet a genuine war hero.
But the Builders Association of Kosciusko - Fulton County will give their members, prospective members and the general public the opportunity to hear and see one June 1, at the association's annual recruitment dinner.
John Steer, recipient of a Bronze Star, a Silver Star and two Purple Hearts, also was recognized in 1992 by then-President George Bush as one of his "One Thousand Points of Light." Steer will address the Builders Association dinner attendees.
"We're calling this our 'Salute To Veterans' dinner. It seems appropriate because the dinner is the day after Memorial Day and we had the opportunity to have a distinguished veteran speak to us," said Randy Jones, of the BAKFC.
Jones said Steer, who is a personal friend, was scheduled to be in Indianapolis for Memorial Day, appearing with the traveling Vietnam Memorial. That close proximity prompted Jones to contact Steer about the possibility of speaking at the association's annual dinner.
Steer was a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Infantry in 1967 and participated in two of the worst battles in the Vietnam War: The Slope in June 1967 and Hill 875 in November 1967. It was in the latter conflict that he lost his right arm.
He is now an ordained minister and travels the world spreading the Gospel, as well as counselling veterans in dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder and other post-war maladies.
Steer is also an accomplished writer and musician, having written three books and recorded nine albums.
Reservations for the BAKFC dinner at 2517 Restaurant are required and may be made by calling 267-6125. The cost is $10 per ticket, which includes the meal. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. and dinner is at 7 p.m., with Steer's address at 8 p.m.
