There are over 800 veterans in Mineral County, and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) would like to honor them during Armed Forces Week on May 21.

“This will be out first time doing this, said RSVP coordinator, Mary Jo Berry. She’s working with a small committee of volunteers and coordinating the event. It will include a Veterans-only pig roast at the Superior High School, with a small ceremony, guest speakers and music starting at 1 p.m.

Among the honorees are three World War II veterans Joe Magone, John Cochran, and Norris Grunhuvd. The event will include participation from the Boys and Girls Scouts, the Eagle Scouts, and Lions Club. As well as area students.

Mineral County has one of the largest populations of Veterans in Montana and there isn’t a comprehensive list of who they are, said volunteer, Robert Lyons. For this reason, the committee is asking Veterans, or friends and families of Vets, to help spread the word about the luncheon.

“We would like Vets and their guest to RSVP and so we have an idea of how many people to expect. Since this is our first year of holding it, we don’t really know what to expect,” said Lyons.

Armed Forces Day was established by President Harry S. Truman, for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our communities.

In 1949, the single day replaced separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Days. The single day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense.

The committee is also hoping that guests will wear their uniforms, and corsages will be given to their spouses. The event is being funded through a grant from the Mineral County Community Foundation and it’s free, and open to the public. However donations will be accepted. Several local businesses have made donations, and the pig is being roasted by Superior Meats. There will also be cole slaw, beans, cake, and ice cream.

“We’re hoping to make this an annual event,” said Berry.

People can RSVP to Mary Jo Berry at 822-2213 or: email spr4800@blackfoot.net. Address: PO Box 927, Superior, MT 59872.