LAWRENCE — An annual lunch for U.S. military veterans in Lawrence has grown to a full-course thank you meal and program —— a small gesture of thanks for veterans’ big contributions and sacrifices.

by Arnaldo Rodgers

The Lawrence Senior Center’s director, Martha Velez, started the tradition 14 years ago. The event, a spaghetti lunch, was an expression of gratitude for defending and making possible this peaceful and stable homeland.

“I live in a great country, and it’s because of the veterans,” said Velez. She came to this country from Cuba as a 5-year-old.

This year’s program is Nov. 7, at the Lawrence Senior Center, where 200 veterans and guests are expected. Veterans are urged to RSVP by calling the Lawrence Senior Center at 978-620-3540. Each veteran is welcome to bring a guest.

Lawrence Veterans’ Services Director Jaime Melendez has for the second consecutive year joined forces with the Senior Center director, the two of them organizing the lunch.

The joint effort was a natural fit since Melendez serves veterans, some of whom are seniors; and Velez serves seniors, some of whom are veterans.

New this year, Columbia Gas of Massachusetts and The Eagle-Tribune have come aboard as sponsors.

Columbia spokeswoman Andrea Luppi said the company has 10 veterans among the 80 employees at its Marston Street office in Lawrence.