Local veteran to front the bill for others on Veteran's Day

BUCHANAN, Mich. --- A local veteran is set to front the lunch bill for close to a hundred city workers and first responders.

Bob Barnes, 95, is an Air Force veteran who served in World War 2 and the Korean War. For the second year in a row, he is putting the spotlight on Buchanan first responders and city workers for Veteran’s Day.

“It’s just something to me that means so much,” Barnes said.

Just a day ago on Barnes was in doctor’s care at the hospital. He said he is fine now and wasn’t going to let his health stop him from showing gratitude and sharing his message.

“It’s a bit of a tearjerker,” said William Marx, Buchanan city manager.

Barnes invited 98 city workers and first responders for a free lunch at Hilltop Café on Front Street in Buchanan.

The owner of the Hilltop Café said he gave Barnes a discounted price, but Barnes countered with another price to make sure the local restaurant would still make a profit.

Marx said this means a lot to the city but feels that they should be doing this for him.

“I mean they have been extremely good to me and I try to be good to them,” Barnes said.

Marx said Barnes understands what it is to give and that’s what makes him happy.

Last year, Barnes paid for 78 people. He said he received multiple thank you notes and even a certificate of appreciation from the city of Buchanan.

“I’m going to keep doing it as long as I’m able,” Barnes said.

He said veterans gave up their lives for US citizens.  

“Our veterans are need to be recognized but so do our local people that serve the same way,” Barnes said.