The Dawson County Chapter 970 of Vietnam Veterans of America & Associates has assembled a cookbook, consisting of favorite recipes from group members, family and friends.

“The idea for the cookbook came from our members’ wives. We think it’s important to include them and we are so proud of what they have come up with,” said Gunny Moore, president of Chapter 970.

The cookbook includes more than 350 recipes, ranging from appetizers to desserts, main dishes to side dishes. The cover features a photo of the memorial for veterans at Veterans Memorial Park. Cookbooks will debut at the Moonshine Festival, from Oct. 24 to Oct. 26. Cookbooks are priced at $20, with possible discount rates for bulk purchases.

“It’s a lot of good food for a very good cause,” said Moore.

All proceeds from the cookbook will be allocated to the following organizations and causes: NOA (No One Alone), a regional battered women’s shelter, the local college scholarship program for Vietnam veteran descendants, Veterans Affairs of Dawson County, services for disabled veterans and funding the expansion of the Dawson County Veterans Memorial.

“These kind of fundraising projects enable us to help the community,” said Moore.

“We are not just a social club for veterans. We want to continue to do good in the community,” he added.

Vietnam Veterans of America is a nationwide veterans service organization of more than 600 chapters.

According to the press release from the national office of Vietnam Veterans of America, the group is “committed to secure disability benefits and proper health care for veterans, to carry out community service programs across the country, to promote respect for Vietnam veterans and to foster pride in the service of those who wore the nation’s uniform during the Vietnam War.”

The Dawson County Chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America has over 50 members and was officially chartered on Nov. 18, 2005.

For more information about Chapter 970 of the Vietnam Veterans of America & Associates or to purchase a cookbook, contact Gunny Moore at (706) 300-7033.