VALDOSTA — Thanksgiving deliveries were made by members of the American Veterans Post 607 on Tuesday.

The annual delivering of Thanksgiving baskets is a tradition started more than 20 years ago, said Link Dublin, first vice commander.

The 100 baskets were delivered throughout Valdosta, Lowndes County and surrounding areas, he said.

James Williams, a past post commander, said giving out the baskets is just another commitment the veterans make to the community.

“We will help out all that we can help,” he said.

The baskets contained turkeys, greens and other fixings to make a Thanksgiving meal. The members of the post paid for all of the food that went into the boxes, Dublin said.

To help those who may not be able to drive or leave their homes, a group of seven vehicles and 15 post members delivered the baskets to various recipients.

Dublin said the post has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people needing food this holiday season and they have had to turn many people down.

But the 100 baskets that Post 607 gave out has increased from the original 10 baskets first given out 20 years ago, Williams said.

Helping people is another extension of military service, Dublin said.

“We love God and country,” he said.

Mary Baker, president of the Ladies Auxiliary, said she has been helping with the baskets since 1995.

“It’s an honor to be able to give back to the community,” Baker said.

The baskets serve as a blessing for many people who would not have a special meal to enjoy during the holiday season, she said.

The best part about helping, she said, is seeing the smiles on the people’s faces when they receive the baskets.