The spirit of Christmas was alive and well at American Legion Post 163 in Crossville, Tenn., Christmas Day, when 82 veterans were treated to a free meal, movies and music.

As much as they enjoyed the event, post members and their families were equally happy for the chance to pass on the blessings and help those in need.

The first-time event, called No Veteran Left Alone at Christmas, was from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at the post on Hwy. 127 and was organized by Post Commander Mike Ratterman.

Retired from the military and law enforcement, the Crossville resident is always looking for ways to help veterans and was inspired by his experience as a volunteer serving Christmas meals to the needy in his hometown of Kansas City.

Ratterman received some donations but paid for most of the food that included turkey, ham, stuffing, green beans and rolls. Among the volunteers were Jim and Connie Farley, both Navy veterans. “We enjoyed the meal and the opportunity to relax and share this time with other veterans and friends,” they said. “Looking forward to next year. Mike Ratterman and his crew did a great job welcoming everyone.”

Ratterman said the post hall was a beehive of activity Christmas Day. He had set a goal of 100 people showing up, noting that was a number he threw at the wall to see if it would stick; veterans and volunteers numbered 128.

Ratterman said the members showed up “big time” as the doors opened, and the hall filled up quickly.
It didn’t take long for the event to live up to its billing of providing a Christmas meal and cheer for veterans. and families

“The first person through the door was a homeless veteran who was living in his car with his son,” Ratterman said. “He told us that he and his son had been sick and he did not want to make anyone else sick. He was hoping he could get a meal for both of them. We made him a couple meals to go, and he went on his way. The first-time No Veteran Left Alone on Christmas event was held at the American Legion Post 163 hall. 82 veterans and 46 volunteers/family members were treated to a free buffet style meal of ham, turkey, green bean salad and stuffing, and Christmas movies and music.

Ratterman organized the event to make sure Cumberland County veterans had a place to go for camaraderie and food on Christmas Day. The plan is to make this a yearly event.