They came bearing festively wrapped presents, but their greatest gift was simply their presence.

AMVETS Ironton chapter 5293 came bearing chocolates, radios, baseball caps, sweatpants, shirts, belts, hygiene items and some much needed holiday cheer to their fellow 11 veterans at Sunset Nursing Home on Wednesday.

"Any military member has a special bond, whether they served in the Army, Navy or Marines," said Tom Laber, the chapter's 2nd vice-commander. "We may have given each other a hard time then (during service), but we always come together."

Laber and his fellow AMVETS Curtis Faulkner and 1st Vice-Commander Carroll Stamper made the rounds at Sunset, spending time with each veteran on Santa's list. Earlier, they made stops to Jo-Lin Health Center and Bryant Health Center for 13 other veterans living at those facilities.

Although Sunset resident Tennis Walsh engaged the AMVETS in some military ribbing, it was all in good fun. The World War II Army veteran's face seemed lit from within as he reminisced about the old days with his pals.

That kind of smile therapy is just what Sunset Activities Director Jane Brown said the resident veterans enjoy so much, not to mention the staff.

"It means a great deal. Our veterans are special to us," Brown said. "Our veterans always enjoy seeing each other."

Getting to help fellow veterans is what AMVETS is all about, Rosemary York said. Whether it's bringing gifts to those often forgotten in nursing homes or helping send packages to soldiers serving oversees, the Ironton chapter has helped hundreds of veterans this year.

"Veterans need to be recognized," she said. "Where would our country be without our veterans?"

The chapter is always in need of more workers to help out. To volunteer or to make a donation, call the chapter at 532-0898.