HOOKSETT – The spirit of gratitude was palpable on Saturday, Nov. 9, as approximately 200 veterans from Hooksett, Pembroke, Allenstown, and surrounding areas gathered at the Hooksett Congregational Church for the third snnual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast.
“We do anything for the vets. They deserve it all!” said committee member Kathy Jacques.
“Thank you for putting together the video on Roger Hebert. It made me cry,” said Hooksett resident and veteran Mike Champagne. Roger Hebert is his father-in-law and served in WWII.
“I love helping cook for this event. Every year it fills my heart, since my dad served in Korea and my son is active duty Navy,” said Kim Lacasse of Hooksett.
The event was an opportunity to honor the selfless service of local veterans with a hearty meal, meaningful fellowship, and tokens of appreciation.
The church fellowship hall was transformed into a welcoming space filled with laughter, camaraderie and respect for the community’s veterans. Attendees enjoyed a delicious breakfast sponsored by Aroma Joe’s, The Common Man, and the Hooksett Congregational Church, with committee members, volunteers, and local supporters working together to make every veteran feel valued.
Guest of Honor Roger Hebert, 98, a World War II veteran from Hooksett who served in multiple branches of the military, inspired attendees with his presence. Hebert’s service legacy stood as a reminder of the enduring sacrifices made by all veterans.
Throughout the morning, veterans received thoughtfully curated gift bags, and a special $500 heating raffle was held, courtesy of The Main Street Man & Associates at eXp Realty and Carol Jordan of Fairway Mortgage. Additionally, committee members Kathy Jacques and Mary Ann Wells organized a raffle of gift cards donated by generous community members.
Professional photographer Kris Levesque of NU Horizon Media captured every memorable moment from 8 a.m. to noon, ensuring that veterans would have cherished mementos of the day. The entire event was a collaborative effort made possible by the Veterans Breakfast Committee, local businesses, and the Hooksett Congregational Church.
For the committee and community supporters, the breakfast served as a humble yet heartfelt way to thank these men and women for their service.
To learn more about supporting next year’s Veterans Appreciation Breakfast, contact Tony LaCasse at 603-716-5769. Anyone who is interested in volunteering, donating, or supporting next year’s event is urged to reach out.
