Navy SEAL Monty Heath talks to World War II fighter pilot Gilbert “Tommy” Farr

A small round table boasting flags and other symbols reminded everyone entering The Connection dining room Wednesday to take two minutes to remember Veterans on Veterans Day.

There seemed to be no problem with that as more than 150 men and women crowded into the senior center for a special Veterans Day lunch spearheaded by Higher Ground Sun Valley.

Red, white and blue balloons lined the walkway leading up to the building, while tiny American flags stuck in firecracker canisters and Uncle Sam hats served as table center pieces. Seven flags, including those representing the Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Navy and U.S. Coast Guard, lined the wall behind Chef Erik Olsen’s serving counter.

“Quite the turnout,” remarked Dr. Frank Andrews, who served during the Vietnam War.