ELBERTA, Ala. — The VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post 24230 in Elberta played host to organization National President Armithea “Sissy” Borel and State President Joyce James Sunday night.

The evening included a dinner prepared by Elberta Town Councilman Don Koontz and his wife, Trish.

“For some reason, ladies are now in a unique postion,” the councilman said, praising the auxiliary members for their efforts to support veterans.

The dinner was also served by the Young Marines in Pensacola, Fla.

“I’m very proud to know we have students interested in doing this kind of thing,” Borel told the youth.

In addition, the national president spoke to the group, which included Auxiliary dignitaries from throughout the state. She explained that her brother had served in the Vietnam War and had only recently been diagnosed with and began receiving treatment for post-traumatic stress syndrome.

“I am actually beginning to see a little bit of the boy that left us,” Borel said.

Her trip to Baldwin County included a visit with residents of the William F. Green Veterans Home in Bay Minette Sunday afternoon.

“To spread some Christmas cheer,” Borel said, adding that such cheer extended to encouraging family members of residents. “I call them care takers.”

The Starks, Miss. resident’s tenure began in July and will last until July 2014. In that time, she makes her way across the country on such visits.

“The main focus is to re-educate the United States on Americanism and patriotism,” Borel said. “I hsve visited 38 states since Aug. 1.”

Other programs include essay scholarship contest for students and such programs for veterans as suicide awareness and transitional housing.

“The homeless rate of veterans in sky high,” Borel said.

The dignitaries also visited Eagles Landing in Mobile during their-two day visit.