Through Purple Heart Family Support™, volunteers from MarineParents.com held their first west coast dinner for wounded warriors on Monday, November 3.

The crew of volunteers planned meals for 100 military men and women. Actual attendance topped 140 personnel.

Purple Heart Family Support™ has been serving meals to family members at Bethesda Naval Hospital for almost two years, but this was the first venture to the west coast.

"I think we not only fed all these heroes, but were able to bring a touch of home to many" said Joyce Orrell, volunteer and manager of the monthly meal program.

Mrs. Orrell, a Marine Mother and volunteer for MarineParents.com began planning for the dinners just over a month ago. The plan is to have a dinner at the barracks once each month. "This wouldn't have been possible without all the help behind the scenes, and a special thank you goes out to Fat Ivors who provided the meals."

Fat Ivors is a barbecue restaurant located in Oceanside, California. The restaurant donated chicken, ribs, and potato salad for the dinner.

A variety of homemade pies were available as well, from local families who worked with Mrs. Orrell prior to the event. A Sergeant's wife who was able to attend with their two children was so overwhelmed by the generosity that she cried.

Brook Pilkington, a volunteer, said she was honored to be part of the event to give support and encouragement to the men and women. "Watching them enjoy a delicious meal and good company warmed my heart," she said.

Volunteer Lori, who helped to setup and serve the dinner, noted that several of the Warriors, Navy and Soldiers commented what a great dinner it was and how much they appreciated the company. "Then they wanted to know when we'd be back!" she said.

The next dinner is planned for December 8, prior to Christmas leave.