West Berlin, NJ - in May local Shoprite stores, all owned by the Zallie family, honored USA military veterans at a luncheon. Held each year in May, the annual luncheon honored six veterans at each of the Zallies Supermarkets, Inc locations. However, any active or retired service member was welcome to attend the event.
In fact, I watched as Guiliana Zallie graciously invited Shoprite customers to join when they stated that they were veterans or family members of someone who served. That is not only admirable but also appropriate because this year’s luncheon occurred on Armed Forces Day, a holiday that encourages people to thank military members for their patriotic service in support of the country.
The commencement began with Winslow Township Ambassador Troop 30910 and Brownie Troop 30725 gifting their beloved cookies to the veterans as they arrived. Soon afterward, we stood to say the pledge of allegiance and salute the American Flag, which had its history; it was flown over a United States Base in Afghanistan many years ago.
After the opening ceremonies, each veteran was introduced and invited to say something during the event. The honored guests at Zallie’s Shoprite in West Berlin, NJ, this year were:
- William Kendell, US Army, who served from 1966 to 1969
- Ron Toney, US Navy who served as an E-6 from 1961 to 1981
- Addison Reader, Jr., US Marine Corps who served as an E-3 from 1978 to 1982
- Lucian Richmond, US Navy who served as a First Class Petty Officer from 1953 to 1973
- George Bethel, US Navy who served as an E-4 from 1984 to 1992
- Joe Drinkhouse, US Army who served as an E-6 Staff Sergeant from 1996 to 2011
George Bethel, one of the honorees, mirrored the appreciation heard from all the men being honored. [sic] “I want to thank the store and the Zallie family for having us out. On behalf of VFW Post 303 and Sergeant Ron Wright, and as you know, the Mayor of Winslow Township supports us very well. I would like to say thank you for having us out, and I appreciate you having us. It means a lot,” stated Mr. Bethel.
After the buffet, Giuliana Zallie and Phyllis Magazzu (Mayor of Berlin Township) thanked the veterans and their families for attending the event. Additionally, Ms. Zallie thanked the Shoprite catering staff for providing and serving the food and beverages for the buffet lunch.
Afterwards, the six honorees were given a $200 bank gift card, a beautiful floral arrangement, and a gourmet fruit and cheese basket (made in-store by their respective departments), along with a Swarovski ornament bearing the inscription “Home of the Free, Because of the Brave.”
The Zallie family's appreciation for our military didn’t end after the luncheon. They are offering a special discount for veterans and active military members at participating Shoprite stores.
“These brave veterans are our neighbors, friends, and role models, and we are humbled to once again host six veterans and their families at each of our seven stores. These special lunches give us a moment to pause and help recognize the enormous sacrifices veterans have made for our freedom,” said Bruce Zallie. “In addition to this year’s luncheon, all Zallie Supermarkets, Inc. ShopRite stores will offer active and retired military personnel, with proof of ID, a 5 percent discount on in-store purchases made Saturday, May 19, as well as every Monday beginning May 21*.”
*The 5 percent military discount will be available Saturday, May 19, and every Monday beginning May 21st. Some restrictions apply. Please see individual stores for details.
