Martinez, Calif. veterans pass out candy during the city’s “Trunk-or-Treat” Halloween event on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019.
Creatively themed and decorated car trunks and shops lined Main Street in downtown Martinez the Sunday before Halloween to hand out candy and treats to thousands of children.
American Legion Post 29 supported the annual Martinez community “Trunk-or-Treat Spooktacular” for a third year. Legionnaires wowed the crowds with real military personnel and equipment.
Local merchants and nonprofits started this event 24 years ago to provide a safe place for Martinez families to enjoy Halloween festivities.
While all the other groups spent hours decorating their vehicles, Norman Thelwell brought his restored 1944 Willies Jeep complete with WWII markings, an M1 Garand Rifle, a Thompson submachine gun, and lots of inert ammo. No decorating was needed.
George May III, sported a vintage WWII uniform, handed out candy to delighted children from his real Army surplus helmet. May’s fellow reenactor Fred Klink wore a 1940’s Navy uniform and handed out candy from his Navy surplus helmet.
“We are ready this year,” said post Adjutant George May, Jr. indicating a huge pile of candy in the back of the Jeep. “Last year, we gave out 1,600 pieces of candy.”
“The first year we participated, someone had to run to the store three times to buy more candy,” chimed in Post 29 Commander Jeff Roubal. “I couldn’t believe it.”
Every year this event brings together the whole community. The City of Martinez Parks & Recreation department provides free face painting at the Main Street Plaza. Also, at the Plaza the Main Street Martinez business association provides each child a free map and Halloween bag to collect goodies.
“Many people told me the highlight of their day was our display provided by legionnaires from Post 29,” said Roubal. “In this season when everything is all costume and makeup, it is hard to match the authenticity of having your picture taken with true military veterans.”
Article written by Jeff Roubal. Photos by Vivian Roubal.
Author: caLegion Contributor
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