McCord Gallery & Cultural Center closed its “The Veterans Experience Through Art” exhibit with a heartfelt Veterans Luncheon on Saturday, March 28, bringing together artists, community members and a celebrated military band for an afternoon of reflection and tribute.
The event marked the final day of the exhibit, which featured artwork created by veterans sharing personal stories shaped by their service. Guests filled the gallery space, taking in the pieces one last time while honoring the individuals behind them at the gallery, located at 9602 W. Creek Road in Palos Park.
“The veterans’ lunch is the last day of the exhibit. We would like to thank all the veterans that participated and shared their artwork with the community, and all who took the time to come out and see this unique exhibit, ‘The Veterans Experience Through Art,’” said Carol Trzcinski, executive director of the gallery.
Veterans in attendance included Susan Hampton, who traveled from Arkansas, along with Ralph Chichester, Glenn Granat, Steve Kost and Mane Pritza. Each was recognized for contributing both their service and their creative work to the exhibit.
A highlight of the afternoon was a performance by the Joliet American Legion Band, a 2023 national champion ensemble known for its precision and rich musical tradition. The 39-piece band delivered a stirring program of patriotic music, filling the gallery with familiar marches and resonant melodies.
The performance also featured a color guard presentation and formal introductions of the attending veterans, drawing applause and moments of quiet reverence from the crowd. A vocalist led guests in a singalong of “God Bless the USA,” prompting many in attendance to join in, their voices echoing through the space.
Founded in 1946 and sponsored by American Legion Post 1080, the Joliet American Legion Band has long been a fixture in the region. The group, made up of veterans, professional musicians, students and community members, has performed for seven U.S. presidents and earned dozens of state and national titles. Despite its national recognition, the band continues to maintain strong ties to the Joliet area, performing regularly at parades, concerts and community events.
Saturday’s luncheon served as both a celebration and a closing chapter for the exhibit, blending art, music and personal stories into a unified tribute. As the final notes faded and guests lingered among the artwork, the event underscored the enduring connection between service, expression and community.
