Sheboygan community rallies to save local VFW Post's free Veterans Day breakfast event

The aroma of biscuits and gravy, bacon, and pancakes wafted through Sheboygan this Wednesday, a familiar comfort for local veterans and a testament to the enduring spirit of community. For over a decade, VFW Post 9156 has hosted a free Veterans Day breakfast, a tradition cherished by many. However, this year, the event faced an uncertain future following the passing of its quartermaster, Dave Fretig, in September and the subsequent staffing shortages within the post. Fortunately, a wave of community support, spearheaded by local business owner Christina Hephner, ensured that the breakfast would continue, reaffirming the vital connection between those who serve and those they protect. Sheboygan County is a place where neighbors look out for each other, and this event exemplified that commitment.

What Happened

The annual Veterans Day breakfast at VFW Post 9156 in Sheboygan had become a beloved tradition, offering veterans a free meal and a chance to reconnect with fellow service members. Dave Fretig, who served as the post's commander for approximately ten years before becoming quartermaster, played a crucial role in organizing the event. His passing in September created significant challenges for the post, leading to an announcement on November 2nd that they would be unable to continue hosting the breakfast due to staffing and volunteer shortages. This announcement sparked concern within the community, prompting Christina Hephner, owner of LushLounge, to take action.

Hephner mobilized a call for volunteers and donations, quickly generating an outpouring of support from residents and local businesses. Victor Dominguez, owner of Las Brisas in Plymouth, and Samantha Huibregtse, whose grandfather is a veteran, were among those who stepped forward to assist. The community’s response was immediate and substantial, ensuring the breakfast could proceed as planned. “Our wonderful community stepped in, and got tons of donations, and tons of volunteers, and I think it's gonna be really awesome today,” Hephner remarked. The effort underscored the importance of dedicated individuals willing to preserve cherished traditions.

The breakfast itself was a resounding success, drawing hundreds of attendees. Veterans enjoyed a full spread of traditional breakfast fare, including biscuits and gravy, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, French toast, and pancakes. Beyond the food, the event served as a powerful symbol of gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served our country. The outpouring of support from the community provided a tangible demonstration of that respect and fostered a sense of belonging for the veterans in attendance. The Veterans of Foreign Wars has long been a vital resource for veterans, and the Sheboygan post's challenges highlighted the importance of community involvement in supporting these organizations.

Community Reaction

The community’s response to the potential cancellation of the Veterans Day breakfast was swift and heartfelt. Samantha Huibregtse, moved by the prospect of the tradition ending, immediately volunteered her time. “I was like… 'that can't happen.' And I signed up,” she said, reflecting the sentiment shared by many residents. Victor Dominguez emphasized the importance of giving back to those who have secured our freedoms, stating, “When the need is there, community always steps in. We don't have a complaint on that part.” This willingness to contribute, even in a small way, exemplified the strong sense of civic duty and neighborly compassion that defines Sheboygan.

Veterans’ Reflections

For the veterans in attendance, the breakfast represented more than just a meal; it was a symbol of recognition and camaraderie. Army veteran Michael Sachse, who served in South Korea at Camp Casey near Dongducheon, a city located about 40 miles north from Seoul, from 1971 to 1972, expressed his gratitude, becoming visibly emotional as he reflected on the community's support. “Very good. Good to see you,” he said, conveying the deep appreciation felt by many. Navy veteran Scott Metz echoed this sentiment, praising Sheboygan’s unwavering commitment to its veterans. “That's the thing about Sheboygan. When they see someone in trouble, they do what they can,” he observed, highlighting the town's unique character and the strong bond between residents and those who have served. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a wide range of support services, but community-led initiatives like this breakfast provide invaluable social connection and recognition.

What’s Next

The successful revival of the Veterans Day breakfast has inspired further initiatives to support local veterans. Christina Hephner, recognizing the ongoing needs of the community, has already planned a Christmas dinner for veterans on December 5th. She also donated 100 pairs of rechargeable hand warmers to address the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. VFW Post 9156 House Committee Chair Ken Hemenway encouraged veterans who are not members of the VFW or other veterans organizations to consider joining, emphasizing the importance of collective support and camaraderie. “All of the community is behind us again, and that's wonderful,” he said, expressing hope for the post’s continued strength and service.

Katherine’s Take

What unfolded in Sheboygan this week is a powerful reminder of the enduring values that bind us together. The willingness of residents to rally around the VFW Post and ensure the continuation of this cherished tradition speaks volumes about the strength of our community and the importance of honoring those who have served. It’s easy to feel disconnected in a world that often prioritizes individual pursuits, but moments like these highlight the profound impact of simple acts of kindness and shared commitment.

The passing of Dave Fretig, while a loss for the VFW Post, ultimately galvanized the community. It demonstrates that even in times of uncertainty and grief, the spirit of generosity and selflessness can prevail. The commitment of Christina Hephner and others to not only revive the breakfast but also to provide ongoing support for veterans through the Christmas dinner and hand warmer donations is truly commendable. These are the actions that build strong families, stable communities, and a resilient nation.

As we look ahead, it's crucial to remember that supporting our veterans is not a one-time event but an ongoing responsibility. Encouraging veterans to connect with organizations like the VFW and other support networks is vital for their well-being and for the preservation of our shared history. And for all of us, it’s a call to action: to seek out opportunities to serve our neighbors, to honor those who have served our country, and to build communities where everyone feels valued and supported. The American Red Cross is another organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families.

Resources

For those interested in supporting local veterans or learning more about the VFW Post 9156, the following resources are available:

• VFW Post 9156: Contact information and membership details can be obtained through the national VFW website: https://www.vfw.org/
• Sheboygan County: Information about county services and community initiatives: Sheboygan County
• Department of Veterans Affairs: A comprehensive resource for veterans' benefits and support: https://www.va.gov/
• American Red Cross: Provides disaster relief and support services, including assistance to veterans and their families: https://www.redcross.org/

Local residents can also connect with neighbors and share stories through the TMJ4 News Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/

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The unwavering spirit of Sheboygan serves as an inspiration to communities across Wisconsin and the nation, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, the bonds of fellowship and commitment to service can endure. The dedication of individuals like Christina Hephner and the outpouring of support from residents underscore the importance of preserving traditions and honoring those who have selflessly served our country. It is a testament to the enduring values that define our nation and the power of community to overcome challenges and celebrate shared heritage.