The Hutchinson Elks Lodge is hosting a community “Thank You” for all local military men and women who served in the Global War on Terror since 2001.

The reception, dinner and dance will be March 29 at the Elks Lodge at 720 Minnesota Highway 7 E. in Hutchinson.

“This is a special evening of reuniting and celebrating our recent veterans,” said Elks member Ember Reichgott Junge, event chair. “Each veteran can bring a guest for an evening of good food, live music and dancing with their colleagues and community.”

All active military or veterans from McLeod, Meeker, or surrounding counties who served in Iraq or Afghanistan are invited. “It is important that veterans call (320) 587-3116 today to reserve their free tickets,” Reichgott Junge said.

Other family, friends and supporters can purchase tickets at $15 each for the event or $7 for the reception only. The local bluegrass band The Salty Doggs will entertain at the reception and DJ Kevin Burich will provide the dance entertainment.

“The most powerful thing a community can do is say thank you,” said National Guard Adjutant Gen. Larry Shellito at a recent meeting in St. Paul. According to Shellito, it is important to build a network of support for veterans at the community level. “We need to transcend the military,” he said.

“Our community has responded in a big way in support of our veterans,” Reichgott Junge said. “We will continue to be there for the men and women who gave so much for us. We are coming together as a yellow ribbon community.”

Partners for the event include the Hutchinson Elks, American Legion, Chamber of Commerce and Armory. Other partners include Lutheran Social Service of MN, the Minnesota National Guard, families of those who served, Joan Halter Catering, and event musicians and entertainers.

Sponsors for the event to date include Hutchinson Technology, Inc., Citizens Bank & Trust Co., Crow River Veterinary Hospital, 3M, Stanley Schuette, Bob and Arlys Gehlen, Dr. Mark Smith, Dick Goldstein, Attorney Pete Kasal, Westlund Associates, Inc., and Dave Buechele.

“Come and show your support for our local veterans,” Reichgott Junge said. “Honor and celebrate them. It will be a grand time for all of us.”

Tickets can be purchased at the Hutchinson Elks Lodge or by calling (320) 587-3116.