More than 600 veterans treated to free meals at Anaheim restaurant: 'It's all about helping'
ANAHEIM, Calif. (KABC) -- More than 600 military veterans received free meals at a Mexican restaurant in Anaheim, thanks to a salute from the restaurant's owner as well as help from a group that supports disabled veterans.
Francisco Garcia, the owner of La Casa Garcia, said it's all about the goal of "veterans helping veterans." He wants to serve free meals to 1,000 veterans.
"It's all about helping," said Garcia. "I do Thanksgiving dinner, give away toys for Christmas, but you know what? My No. 1 for me is the veterans."
Garcia and his staff served the meals to veterans during the week leading up to Veterans Day.
He was supported by the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 23 of Orange County, an organization designated by Congress to support disabled military veterans and their families.
"It's very rewarding to want to give back," said Joe Gramojlia, a veteran of the U.S. Army and member of Disabled American Veterans. "It's totally free. [Garcia] never asks us for a dime. At our Christmas party last year, he donated $1,000. The man is all about God, about veterans, and about his community."
Even veterans who weren't disabled were served meals. Many of them used the time together at the restaurant to share stories and encourage support.
"It made me feel protected," said Brian Williams, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. "And free; that's what freedom is about, our veterans. We wouldn't be free today if it wasn't for the veterans."
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