LEWISTON — “Our message to veterans is ‘Let an appreciative America help you,’” said Sandra Smith, director of The Vet Center in Lewiston. And that’s just what members of American Legion Post 31 and Veteran Riders of Maine did recently when they delivered 40 Thanksgiving Day dinners to the center to be shared with other vets.

The Vet Center, on Westminster Street, is officially the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Readjustment Counseling Service. According to Eric Noll, office manager, they are there to help veterans of all eras, and their families, make the transition between military and civilian life. They offer personal assistance with post-traumatic stress, sexual trauma, harassment and bereavement. They also provide outreach and education on many other veteran’s issues and services.

According to Noll, “If we don’t do it we can connect you with someone who does.”

That includes the American Legion, whose mission stresses “continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.” Or, as the president of Veteran Riders of Maine, Chuck Starbird said, “We’re just taking care of our brothers.” “And sisters,” reminded Legion member Bettyann Sheats.

Starbird and Sheats joined Women’s Auxiliary president Nancy Ward, Auxiliary member Colleen Starbird, Post 31 finance officer Peter Cook and 2nd vice Fred Ward to prepare and deliver the dinners.

Learn more about what’s happening at American Legion Post 31 at www.legionpost31.com.