Vermilion High School’s Social Studies Department, in partnership with the Vermilion Teachers Association, hosted its annual Veterans Luncheon on Monday, November 10, at Open Door Church on Beechview Drive. The event brought together nearly 80 veterans, auxiliary members, and family guests for a meal prepared and served by students as a gesture of appreciation for their service to the nation.
History teacher Kristina Edmison, who has taught at Vermilion High School for 27 years, helped launch the luncheon in 1999 alongside former department head Mike Ziemke. The first gathering was held in the high school library and honored just 13 veterans. Since then, it has grown into a long-standing community tradition, with students from Edmison’s two honors social studies classes organizing every detail.
“This started as something small between Mike and me,” Edmison said. “His father was a World War II veteran, and my father served in Vietnam. We wanted to do something meaningful to show our appreciation. Over the years, the students have made it their own. They handle the invitations, decorations, food, everything. I just want the veterans to be able to sit back, relax, and know that we appreciate their service.”
Students were active throughout the event, greeting guests at the door, serving drinks, helping veterans to their seats, and delivering meals to those who needed assistance. A prayer was offered before lunch, followed by a group performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which filled the room with patriotic energy. This year’s luncheon included approximately 78 veterans and 49 students who volunteered their time to serve and honor those who served their country. The oldest veteran in attendance was 98 years old.
Among those attending was Joe Delmonico, owner of Delmonico’s Barbershop in Vermilion. Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969, Delmonico completed basic training at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and advanced training at Fort Knox before serving 19 months overseas. When he returned home, he resumed his work as a barber but continued to dedicate his life to supporting fellow veterans.
Delmonico joined the Italian American War Veterans of Ohio, where his dedication and leadership helped him rise through the ranks from local board member to junior vice commander, senior vice commander, and eventually state commander. His leadership later extended to the national level, where he was elected National Commander of the Italian American War Veterans of the United States. He also served as a national judge advocate and continues to remain active locally in veterans’ advocacy and support.
“I’ve been with the Italian American War Veterans my whole life now,” Delmonico said. “I just try to do whatever I can for veterans who come into my shop, help them out, talk with them, and make sure they know someone is there for them.”
Edmison and her students graciously helped serve, comfort, and show appreciation to what she called some of Vermilion’s most valued community members. The luncheon reflected the deep respect the school continues to hold for the men and women who served their country with honor.
For the veterans, the afternoon was a reminder that their service is not forgotten. For the students, it was a lesson in gratitude and the lasting impact of service both in and out of uniform.
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