Gov. Ruth Ann Minner recieves the 1st brick in the Milford VFW's "Walk of Honor." (Photo by Spc. James Pernol)

The 945^th Collection and Classification unit took time to enjoy a warm summer day and good company at their "family day" over the July drill weekend. Family members mingled with soldiers and were banqueted with traditional barbecue foods at the Milford Veterans of Foreign Wars.

The event drew Governor Ruth Ann Minner and Maj. Gen. Vavala who speak to the assembled soldiers and families. Both praised the family members for their essential support of Guard members.

It was a special day for Gov. Minner, whose first husband (deceased), Sgt. Frank Ingram, had served nine years with the unit in the 60’s. The 945^th honored the governor as a former guard-wife by presenting her with a brick engraved with Sgt. Ingram’s name and the years of his service. The brick will be laid as the first in the Milford VFW’s "Walk of Honor."

Gov. Minner then recounted her days as a "Wednesday night widow" when her husband would go to drill. She voiced her empathy for the Guard spouses, and praised the families for giving so much of themselves.

Staff Sgt. William King retires during the Family Day Celebration after 36 years of military service. (Photo by Spc. James Pernol)

Spc. Michael Pendexter, a mechanic with the 945^th, brought his wife and infant son to the picnic. "This is my first year with the unit but it’s great. This show the unit is real family oriented,"