Some of the veterans who attended The Resource Center’s Veterans Day event pose together. Submitted photo

The Resource Center took time Friday to honor those who have served in the Armed Forces.

The Resource Center hosted its seventh annual Veterans Day lunch at its administrative offices on Dunham Avenue in Celoron. The event was held to honor TRC employees and other community members who have served their country.

Guests included Assemblyman Andrew Goodell, who lauded the bravery of those who join the service.

“It takes courage to join when you know the risks,” Goodell said. He thanked veterans everywhere who “have the courage to step up and put their life on hold and put their life on the line for our country.”

Kathy Culver, the vice president of the local chapter of Blue Star Mothers, expressed thanks to veterans for their commitment to protect the freedoms that Americans enjoy. She invited those in attendance to write a note in a Thanksgiving card or a Christmas card that can be included in some of the hundreds of care packages that the Blue Star Mothers will send to U.S. soldiers this holiday season.

Also attending the event was Peter Carlo of Jamestown, a Korean War veteran who is well known for donating more than 260 American flags to local schools, churches and other organizations in the past few years. Alluding to the divisiveness that has gripped the United States in the wake of the presidential election, Carlo urged Americans to try to put their differences aside.

“We have to pull together for the honor of our country,” he said.

The keynote address was given by Paul Fardink, a retired Army colonel.

“Those who defend us from our enemies must be supported. Warriors need advocates, and that’s why celebrations like this are so important,” Fardink said. “Veterans have given us freedom, security and the greatest nation on earth. You cannot put a price tag on that.”

Fardink, who has worked with The Resource Center for many years, urged area employers to consider hiring veterans. “Companies such as The Resource Center understand that it’s smart business to hire veterans.”

TRC employs dozens of people who have served in the Armed Forces.

Mark Morton, TRC’s assistant executive director for employee relations, gave a brief history of Veterans Day. He added that as an organization, The Resource Center believes it’s important to employ people “who made the choice to serve their country.” Morton also read a congratulatory letter from Congressman Tom Reed, who was unable to attend the event.

Denise Jones, TRC’s executive director, noted that she has several family members who have served in the Armed Forces. “I’ve seen firsthand the family impact,” Jones told the veterans assembled in the room. “Thank you for your service.”

Members of The Resource Center’s board of directors attended the event. Jennifer Yost, board member, stood before the veterans to say, “I want to thank you guys for everything you have done.”

Fardink went around the room with a microphone, giving veterans the opportunity to introduce themselves and talk about when and where they had served. At the end of the event, Carlo and his wife, MaryAnn, held a drawing for an American flag and handed out small flags to those in attendance.

The event began with John Graham, who receives supports from The Resource Center, singing the nation al anthem, followed by Fardink leading the audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.