Veterans rally around Horst Kraeling’s legacy

Mitchell Kraeling, son of the late Horst Kraeling, has given new life to a cherished tradition by resurrecting the Horst Kraeling Veterans Clam Bake, an event created by his father in the 1980s.

The long-awaited gathering, which hadn’t taken place for over two decades until July 30, proved to be a resounding success. Attendees were treated to a sumptuous spread of food, live music, and a variety of activities. Most significantly, the event’s proceeds were dedicated to supporting charitable organizations focused on veterans’ well-being.

Inspired by his father’s legacy, Mitchell Kraeling established an organization named Freeport for Veterans, which is committed to helping local veterans in a variety of ways. Its board of directors comprises Kraeling, Ben Jackson, Susan Lyons, Bill Murphy, Jennifer Jerome and John Hrvatian.

The clambake, at which hundreds enjoyed clams, clam chowder, hot dogs, chicken and beer, raised around $10,000 for local veterans’ groups.

“All the money is going to veterans,” Jackson, the Freeport Chamber of Commerce said. “Everything was donated, so every penny will go to them. We started this organization Freeport for Veterans because we’re honoring Horst Kraeling, who used to do this event many years ago. This country wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for veterans. You know, these guys put their lives on the line for our country. And they deserve to be recognized — they deserve to be given back. There are a lot of veterans who are suffering for many reasons. They need the appreciation. That’s the way we looked at it.”

Dan Rosato, a Marine Corps veteran who volunteered at the event, shared his sentiments about Kraeling.

“The guy was just an amazing human being,” Rosato said. “It’s just amazing. I mean, we should all learn from him. He loved American freedom, and that’s what this is all about. Everyone is supposed to have freedom rights in this country. He came here and he served his country proud for decades. Then he got sick and passed away. But he set a precedent for us, and we will always carry on. I mean, this event is what he was about. It was about community freedom and the whole American dream.”

Expressing his gratitude for the meticulously orchestrated event and the enthusiastic volunteers, Mitchell Kraeling conveyed his pride in continuing his father’s legacy. “I’m just looking forward to raising money for the veterans,” he said. “My main goal is the same as my father’s. It’s not all about raising money; it’s about getting the veterans to get together, get them out of the hospital and have a day out. That’s my goal. If we make money, that’s great. But if the veterans enjoy themselves, it’s even better.”

As the event concluded on a triumphant note, Kraeling reflected on his hopes for the future. Following in his father’s footsteps, he envisions hosting an annual pancake breakfast, and aims to establish a food pantry under the Freeport for Veterans banner. His colleagues in the organization are committed to helping it grow, and continuing to serve veterans in the community and beyond.

“We all have lifestyles, it’s fine, but we got to stop fighting with each other,” Rosato said. “We got to get on board. People have to remember how good the United States is and how good it can be. We have to stop fighting with each other, and we have to start having a conversation. We got to get it together just like this event. People need to get out and come together.”