FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — For over 20 years, the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) has run a holiday gift shop at the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Fayetteville, allowing veterans to select gifts for their families at no cost.
"The American Legion Auxiliary has been setting up a veterans gift shop in the auditorium here, and this is where veterans can come and go Christmas shopping free of charge," American Legion Auxiliary Post 100 President Joanne Cobb said.
While the store is only open in early December, preparations span the entire year.
"When we shut down, we start over. We start gathering gifts, going to vendors, sales, just shopping," Cobb said. "It takes the whole year."
For veterans like Marvin Bair, a former Army 19 Delta Cavalry Scout, the gift shop is invaluable.
"A lot of people are hurting with the times being tough as they are, and they have been throughout the years. This organization just makes it possible for veterans to shop for their families, so we can still keep our dignity," Bair said.
He expressed deep appreciation for the auxiliary.
"Without their help, a lot of veterans would really be suffering," Bair said. "It means an awful lot to me that people are willing to stand up and help veterans out."
Bair encouraged others to take advantage of the service.
"Don't be ashamed to come down. Don't be afraid to come down. These people are here to help you, the veteran," Bair said. "You earned this right. Anything here, you have earned by your willingness to get on the front lines and do what needs to be done to protect our rights and to preserve the Constitution of America."
The store will be open through Wednesday, opening at noon each day.
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