PESHTIGO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – On their way to training camp in Grayling, Michigan, the Army National Guard troops from Wisconsin are making stops along the way to refuel.
“We got a big enough parking lot and they stopped and asked us and we said you can use what you need,” said Eugene Frank, the owner of Express Eagle and a Vietnam Veteran.
Throughout Saturday about a hundred military vehicles pulled in to the Eagle Express Truck Stop in Peshtigo.
Frank tells FOX 11 there’s a fitting irony to this.
“If you’ll notice the name is Eagle Express and I was with the first cavalry and my best friend who got killed in Vietnam was with the First Screaming Eagles, so that’s how we came up with the name,” said Frank.
“We just expected to run into the truck stop, grab some stuff and be back on the road,” said Matt Jacobs.
Jacobs is with the 105th Cavalry Regiment and spoke to FOX 11.
“It’s still nice to see veterans come out and support younger veterans in the community who are still doing the work for the US and the state of Wisconsin.”
“I had a tough time over there and I just want to give back,” said Frank.
Fifteen hundred brats will be served to members of the Army National Guard in just 3 days
Frank says it’s what keeps him going. As he served them their meals, he made sure to thank them for their service.
Lt. Col. Raymond Ripberger tells FOX the gesture means a great deal.
“The troops really do appreciate it not just for the free food. Just to know that people pay attention they care and they’re willing to give up a Saturday to come here and do this thing.”
But not all were surprised. Command Sgt. John Dietzler is from the area.
“It doesn’t surprise me. The northeast area is always big supporters of the military. Anytime we’re going anywhere be it deployment or training.”
As troops from around Wisconsin make their way to Grayling, Frank wants them to know, from one vet to another, they’re appreciated.
Some of the troops spent the weekend on the grounds at Pulaski High School.
