by Jeff Olsen

They weren't serving C-rations a week ago Thursday evening in some greasy spoon joint.

And nobody had to dig out his old mess kit and stand in line to get regular slop.

No, sir!

There were plates, silverware, and nobody had to lean up against a tree like on a bivouac.

They were inside the Warroad American Legion and being treated royally, according to one old soldier, Val Bernat, who has a keen appreciation for quality dining.

He credited Roseau County Veterans Service Officer Marty Howes with doing a great job.

"He was right in the middle of things last night. He was cooking,...