Restaurants across the United States, including a handful in Northern Michigan, are paying their respect to the U.S. Service Members who were killed last week in Kabul. It started after an unknown restaurant owner posted on social media with an idea. Since then, hundred’s have followed suit to remember those we lost.
“When I saw it, it hit me pretty hard,” said Dean Sparks, owner and founder of Spark’s BBQ in Traverse City and Manistee. “It was quite emotional for me. But that’s what it supposed to be. It’s supposed to be an honor. It’s supposed to be powerful… and who would’ve thought? Thirteen beers.”
A table set aside, with 13 beers, for the thirteen U.S. service members who lost their lives in the attack outside the Kabul airport last week.
The tribute started popping up across the country shortly after the attack.
Sparks said he has always been a big supporter of our military and knew he wanted to put out his tribute at this restaurants.
“It seemed like the right thing to do for the moment,” he said. “There’s so much division in America right now, that with a tragedy, it’s something we can all come together and mourn and respect… and pay honor to. The intent of it was to bring honor, and to say thank you to the service members. I think it was very well appreciated by the community.”
Co-Owner’s of Travler’s in Leroy, Diane and Brad Conner, also took part in the remembrance.
“Something like this is quite close to home,” said Brad. “We had a son-in-law that was in Desert Storm. We currently have a grandson that’s in the Marine’s… and we just would like to honor and show dedication to our service men that serve our country.”
Travler’s got the idea after one of their waitresses asked them if they could take part. Brad said the community has really appreciated the move.
“As a business owner, we stand behind them,” he said. “We want to show our appreciation and we thought this would be a great way to do that.”
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