NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Local businesses and organizations are giving back to veterans this week.

Union Street barber Gus Jammalo is offering free haircuts to any veteran this year.

 

"I am a veteran and was in the Korean War. I didn’t see any combat, but I was a paratrooper and a tank commander," Jammalo said. "I wanted to give something back and do something different. A lot of veterans come in some are rich, some are in bad shape and can’t afford a haircut."

Jammalo said one of his favorite parts of the job is talking to veterans when they come in for a trim.

"Some veterans don’t like to talk about it, but some do and I like to talk to people who were in the service," he said. "It is nice to share stories and talk about our time in the service. I get sailors, infantrymen and some marines who are always special people – they are all great."  

"It will be fun, and I might even meet some new people."

Jammalo said he will also be donating any tips he receives to the American Legion.

Jammalo will offer the free haircuts Nov. 13 through Nov. 16. Veterans will need a valid military ID to get the free haircut.

 

Jammalo isn't the only local business giving back to the troops. Mingo’s Sports Bar and Grill will offer a free meal to all active, inactive and retired military personnel.

 

"It is very important to honor our current and past veterans for all that they have done for our country," Jim Shaker, General Manager of Greylock Bowl and Golf said. "We can't thank them enough for what they have done and for what they are doing for our country. It's the least we can do to thank them."

 

On Veteran’s Day, veterans can stop by Mingo’s for a free appetizer, burger or entrée.

 

Shaker added that Mingo’s has done this in the past and he felt it was important for businesses and individuals to take opportunities like Veterans Day to do something special for those who have served the country.

"We feel it's important to make sure our veterans know that we are so appreciative of the commitment that they make to keep our country safe," Shaker said. "Anything that any business or citizen can do to thank them is important."

After the North Adams Veterans Day Ceremony at the American Legion at 11:00 am and the special dedication for Spc. Michael D. DeMarsico II at the North Adams Armory Saturday at 12:15, Veterans and citizens alike can make their way up to Clarksburg Elementary School to participate in a tabletop gaming fundraiser to support homeless veterans though soldier on.

This event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Veterans were also treated to music Thursday in Williamstown with a Veterans Tribute Concert put on by the Williamstown Elementary School Department of Music and Performing Arts.

The sixth-grade chorus performed patriotic songs and presented cards of thanks to present veterans.