The Heroes on a Mission Foundation will bring veterans and first responders together for a free appreciation luncheon Friday.
Executive Director Michael Pierce said the event recognizes veterans and emergency personnel who often carry the effects of traumatic experiences long after their service ends. Pierce is a disabled Navy veteran.
“Every day veterans, they struggle,” Pierce said. “They struggle mentally, they struggle with the things they dealt with and it’s just not just veterans. I’ve talked to first responders that have responded to scenes.”
Pierce said first responders witnessing fatal accidents and other traumatic emergencies also face emotional challenges. Pierce said the luncheons provide an opportunity for those individuals to find camaraderie and support while receiving recognition from their community.
“And they thank us just, you know, just something as simple as a free meal for ’em all to get together and to talk the camaraderie and just to know that we appreciate what they do and what they’ve done,” Pierce said.
The initiative began two years ago when Pierce started providing meals for staff and visiting veterans at the Cookeville VA Clinic. He said the effort initially served as a way to thank the doctors and nurses caring for veterans before local businesses offered financial support to expand the program to first responders throughout the county.
Pierce said his 20 years of service in the Navy inspired his commitment to giving back through the foundation.
“I wouldn’t be where I’m at today if it wasn’t for the 20 years I spent in the Navy,” Pierce said. “The Navy taught me so much and gave me so much, not just what I give them, but what they gave me, what they taught me.”
The free luncheon will take place from11am to 2pm at the Cookeville VA Clinic.