Nov. 11 is a day to remember those who served or are serving in the military.
It will also no doubt be a very busy day at one Barrie restaurant in particular when this now 11-year tradition takes place.
Applebee’s restaurants across Canada will be serving up free meals to all veterans and active duty members of the Canadian Forces all day on Monday, Nov. 11 as a way to give back to the men and women who have served and continue to serve.
From open to close, Applebee’s will offer veterans and active military personnel a free meal from a special Remembrance Day menu that features anything from seven-ounce 'AAA' Canadian top sirloin steak to an oriental chicken salad.
Dynapple Management Corp. is the largest Applebee’s franchisee in Canada, operating 12 locations across four provinces.
Dynapple’s chief people officer, Jim Coram, told BarrieToday that Nov. 11 is his favourite day of the year and says he enjoys meeting the many veterans, listening to and sharing in the stories they have to tell.
“I position myself at the front door, greet everyone personally, shake their hand and say thank you,” Coram said.
“Because of the close proximity to Base Borden, this place gets really busy," he added. "You get active and retired personnel and I just love getting to meet these amazing individuals.”
This annual event is celebrating its 11th year and has served approximately 20,000 free meals.
But Coram says it is much more than simply providing a free meal.
“Giving out free meals is just a small part of this day,” Coram said. “This is all about listening to and having a conversation with theses heroes. Some of the folks who come in here just love to share their personal stories. I love that part.”
The Applebee’s in Barrie, located at 326 Bayfield St., is expected to see a few hundred veterans and active duty military personnel come through the doors. And although staff at the restaurant will be very busy, they are also very honoured to be part of such a wonderful day.
The offer is open to all veterans and active duty Canadian Forces, including cadets. Veterans are asked to bring proof of service to receive their free meal. Qualifying proof of service includes permanent ID card for active personnel, temporary ID card for reservists, veteran’s card or a photograph in uniform or the wearing of their uniform.
