On-duty Marines to get Outback dinners

As many of the civilians in the Yuma area are enjoying a traditional turkey dinner and spending quality time with friends and loved ones, many of the Marines stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma will still be on duty, keeping an ever-present watch over their assigned posts.

One local business owner knows this and wants to make sure these Marines aren't left hungry and out in the cold.

Derek Gurney, owner of the local Outback Steakhouse, has made it his personal duty to be sure those Marines enjoy a hot, tasty and fresh meal for the past several years.

"For the last few years, I have been the president of the Yuma Homefront Optimist Club (YHOC)," Gurney said. "We are an organization that supports local military families. I was in a position as an owner of a restaurant to provide meals for approximately 50 men and women that have to stand 24-hour post over Thanksgiving."

Gurney said he gathers with members of the YHOC early in the morning of Thanksgiving to prepare the meals.

"My restaurant is closed on Thanksgiving Day, but we come to the restaurant and prepare 50 steak dinners, with salad, potatoes and raspberry cheesecake. We deliver them to the Marines on base personally at noon in thanks of their service to the U.S. and for having to be on duty that day."

Gurney said he wants folks to remember the constant sacrifices - big and small - that soldiers, Marines, sailors and airmen have to endure.

"I think a lot of people take it for granted that they get to spend Thanksgiving with their friends and family and unfortunately these Marines don't have that opportunity. The least we can do is provide them a good steak dinner on turkey day."

Gurney said serving the Marines a free steak dinner lifts his spirits.

"When you have the opportunity to give back a little bit it makes you feel good. It allows me to sleep a little bit better at night."