The American Legion and the National Guard will collaborate to honor veterans in Selma Saturday. 

Over 500 veterans are expected to attend a catfish dinner at the National Guard Armory building located at 3363 U.S. 80 Highway from 3-6 p.m.

American Legion representative Thomas Wright said the organizations wanted to do something to show veterans they appreciated them.

“We were thinking about how veterans are not appreciated, and we would just like to show them that we appreciate them and feel they are very important to us,” Wright said. “Without their service, we would not have the freedom that we have today.”

The American Legion and the National Guard has partnered before in efforts to show gratitude for veterans, placing an emphasis on helping homeless veterans.

“We try to connect them with people who will help them find a job and shelter and just get them back on the road to being a successful citizen,” Wright said.

He said the organizations also want to do their part in making veterans feel as comfortable as possible.

“People come out of Iraq and places like that where they have been in the war, we try to help them cope and get back into living practical lives,” Wright said.

This is the first time that the two organizations have bought the catfish dinner to veterans in the community and Wright said he is hoping it can turn into a yearly tradition.

In addition to catfish, those who attend will have other options to choose from like chicken breasts, barbecue pork, french fries, hushpuppies, coleslaw and more. Desserts and drinks will accompany the main courses.

Wright said the American Legion and the National Guard had help putting on the event.

He said because he is a veteran himself and has experienced what it is like to be disregarded by many, it gives him great joy to be able to give back to those like him.

“I know veterans are not always respected and thought of for the things they have done for the country,” Wright said.