On September 26, 2024, more than 700 guests gathered at the Broadmoor International Center, including military leaders, civic officials, and community members. They came together to support the Home Front Military Network (HFMN) and make a difference for service members, veterans, and their families at the 8th Annual Honoring the Brave℠ Breakfast.
As guests arrived, HFMN volunteers and staff welcomed them warmly, while attendees sipped coffee, reconnected with old friends, and networked with partner agencies. At 7:30 a.m., Joe Cole, News Director of FOX21 News, kicked off the program. The High Frontier Honor Guard from Peterson Space Force Cadet presented the colors, and retired Army SFC Norsia “Sergeant H” Harrison gave a moving rendition of the National Anthem. HFMN Board Chair John Andrew thanked event sponsor, then introduced Mayor Yemi Mobolade, who shared a few words with the
audience.
While guests enjoyed their breakfast, HFMN Executive Director Kate Hatten shared more about the organization’s mission, increase in military and veteran community needs, and HFMN’s lasting impact on veterans and their families across Colorado. She mentioned the rising call volume and complex issues their team is managing, emphasizing the importance of continued support to help veterans not thrive in our communities. Kate noted that HFMN’s call volume increased 25% last year and since 2020, total call volume has nearly doubled, referrals to HFMN have more than tripled, and referrals HFMN made to partners have quadrupled.
The Joe Henjum Honoring the Brave℠ award was presented to Ronnie Hatheway, a veteran who served over 20 years and continues to give back by donating cars to those in need. Over 11 years, Ronnie has given away 80 cars, completed repairs and aided veterans who
lack transportation. His dedication to helping service members and their families is truly inspiring.
The Bob Carlone Community Service Award went to Operation TBI Freedom (OTF), a valued HFMN partner. OTF provides long-term, nonmedical case management, including crisis management, referrals, and emergency assistance for veterans with traumatic brain injuries.
Next, attendees were captivated by Sally Roberts’ inspirational keynote about her personal journey from enlisting in the Army to an elite athlete who continues to empower girls and women using the sport of wrestling to become leaders in life. Then audience was moved by an original song by Sergeant H, “Say a Prayer for the Soldiers”.
If you haven’t had a chance to donate yet, we invite you to help us reach our goal. Text “THRIVE24 to 44-321, click here or send a check to the HFMN office at 1120 N. Circle Drive, Suite #230, Colorado Springs, CO 80909. Every donation directly supports HFMN programs, helping military and veteran families throughout Colorado.
We would like to say a special thank you to Special thanks to Mayor Yemi Mobolade, Table Captains, our volunteers, The Broadmoor conference and catering staff, Inspire, PAN Digital Media, John Mortland Photography, Deacon Juan Moreno,
High Frontier Honor Guard from Peterson Space Force Base, Norsia “Sergeant H” Harrison, Sally Roberts, and Joe Cole with FOX21 News, and all of our sponsors. Last, but certainly not least, thank you to the HFMN Event Committee for their efforts in making sure the event was well planned and executed! HFMN would not be able to do this splendid work without the faithful crew of donors, volunteers, sponsors, Committee and Board members, staff, and partner agencies who believe in this organization and our community. Check out the photo album from the event here and thank you all for Honoring the Brave with us!!!
