Thanks to the people of Cayuga County: As a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, I would like to say thanks to all the people who made our poppy campaign a great success.

I don't think that people are aware that all these monies donated to this campaign go right back to the people of Cayuga County in many different ways. Such as loss due to fire, scholarships, personal hardships and, of course, veterans of all wars.

Of all the people who gave a donation this year, one person stands out the most in my eyes. A little girl about 6 years old, requested a poppy for her and one for her brother. I honored her request and she thanked me. She then added, “I only have a penny,” but was willing to give all she had to “us.” This brought tears to my eyes as this reminded me so much of our fallen brothers. “All gave some, yet some gave all.”

We are a very proud group, each and every one of us members of the VVA and our color guard shows it. We take pride in the fact the we can give back to the community what they have given to us.

Yes, when we came back from 'Nam we were booed and called all kinds of names and even subjected to violence. Now you people have shown us the gratitude that every veteran deserves from every war that was fought.

Many people have asked me if I would do it all again? I reply, “you better believe it, in a heartbeat.” Right or wrong, if you have been blessed to live in this country you should be proud enough to die for your country any day of the week.

Once again, I thank you.

L. Thomas Powers

Auburn

Vietnam veteran and Navy Seal