Assemblyman Ed Ra (R- Franklin Square) is hosting a free barbeque dinner to honor local veterans. The dinner will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 14 at VFW Post 2718 in Franklin Square. This very special event gives us a chance to honor and thank local veterans for their service.

“It is extremely important that we take the time to show our appreciation to the dedicated servicemen and women of our community,” said Ra. “While there are many holidays in which we come together to commemorate veterans who have passed away, we must remember to give thanks to those who are still here with us. Their sacrifices have allowed us to enjoy many freedoms that too often are taken for granted. Hosting this barbeque is a small token of my appreciation for their honorable service to our country.”

Representatives from Nassau County Clerk Maureen O'Connell's Veterans ID Program also will be joining Assemblyman Ra at the event. The Veterans’ ID Program provides many benefits to veterans who are interested in participating. In order to receive the program’s benefits, veterans must bring their discharge papers or their DD214 to the barbeque. Upon presenting these papers, they will receive an ID card, a discount card and will be able to keep a copy of their discharge papers/DD214 form on file in the County Clerk's office. The copies filed with the clerk’s office will be considered legitimate documentation in the event that the original is lost.

“I also want to thank in advance The Coral House, VFW Post #2718, and all the volunteers who help make this special event possible,” said Ra. “It is very important to celebrate our honorable veterans and thank them for their service. This barbeque gives us the opportunity to do just that, and I hope many of the brave men and women of our community join us.”

Veterans and one guest are invited to attend the free event that will be held at the Franklin Square VFW at 68 Lincoln Road. Reservations are necessary and can be made by calling Assemblyman Ed Ra’s district office at 516-535-4095.