Honoring the Brave(SM): A Powerful Morning of Community and Commitment

On September 23, 2025, more than 700 guests came together at The Broadmoor International Center to celebrate and support Colorado’s military community during the 9^th Annual Honoring the Brave^SM Breakfast, hosted by Home Front Military Network (HFMN). The event brought together military leaders, civic officials, community partners, and supporters – all united in one mission: to make a difference in the lives of service members, veterans, and their families.

A Warm Welcome

As attendees arrived, HFMN staff and volunteers greeted them with coffee, warm smiles, and opportunities to reconnect with old friends and network with partner agencies. The program promptly began at 7:30 a.m., led by Joe Cole, News Director for FOX21 News.

The High Frontier Honor Guard from Peterson Space Force Base presented the colors during a moving rendition of the National Anthem by retired Army SFC Norsia “Sergeant H” Harrison. Before the program continued, Deacon Clarence “CJ” Johnson offered a heartfelt prayer, setting the tone of gratitude, unity, and hope for the morning. His words reminded everyone why they had gathered: to honor those who serve and to strengthen the community that supports them.

Following a thankful acknowledgement of sponsors by HFMN Board Chair, Lisa Dykhoff, Mayor Yemi Mobolade took the stage to share words of gratitude and encouragement with the audience.

Highlighting the Mission

Over breakfast, HFMN Executive Director, Kate Hatten, reflected on the organization’s growing role in meeting the needs of the military and veteran community. She shared that HFMN’s call volume has quadrupled since 2020, underscoring the urgency and complexity of the challenges faced by veterans and their families.

Since 2004, HFMN has distributed more than $6.6 million in emergency financial assistance, helping over 5,000 households avoid homelessness and maintain access to essential needs. Kate emphasized that none of this would be possible without ongoing support, reminding guests that their involvement is critical to helping veterans not just survive, but thrive.

Celebrating Leaders Who Serve

Two prestigious awards were presented during the breakfast:

The Joe Henjum Honoring the Brave^SM Award was presented to the Honorable Judge David L. Shakes of the El Paso County 4^th Judicial District Veterans Trauma Court (VTC). Judge Shakes has dedicated more than 13 years to guiding the VTC, helping over 500 veterans rebuild their lives through access to housing, employment, and family reconnection.
The Bob Carlone Community Service Award went to YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region, a long-standing HFMN partner. Through its Armed Services YMCA, the organization has provided over $1 million in financial assistance and created innovative programs like on-base childcare during medical appointments at Fort Carson.

Inspiring Stories & Performances

The morning featured a powerful keynote by Howie Sanborn, an Army veteran and elite Paralympian, who shared his remarkable journey of perseverance and determination. Guests were also moved by Sergeant H’s original song, “Duty First,” which captured the heart of the morning’s theme: honoring the resilience and sacrifice of those who serve.

Gratitude & Call to Action

The event concluded with an emotional call to action by Councilmember Nancy Henjum, Joe Henjum’s daughter, who gracefully shared a beautiful story about the founding of Home Front Cares and the reason our community continues to support our military community.

If you haven’t had the chance yet, we invite you to join us in supporting Colorado’s service members, veterans, and their families. Every donation makes a direct impact. You can give online at ColoradoGives or by sending a check to:

Home Front Military Network
1120 N. Circle Drive, Suite 230
Colorado Springs, CO 80909

Special Thanks to:

HFMN Table Captains
Mayor Yemi Mobolade
Norsia “Sergeant H” Harrison
Deacon Clarence “CJ” Johnson
Howie Sanborn
High Frontier Honor Guard from Peterson Space Force Base
Nancy Henjum
Cindy Centofanti
Joe Cole from FOX21 News
John Mortland Photography
PAN Digital Media
The Broadmoor Conference Center and Catering Staff
Affordable Flags & Fireworks, Inc
Cheetah Printing

Thank you to the HFMN Event Committee for their efforts in making sure this event was well planned and executed. HFMN would not be able to fulfill our mission without the faithful crew of HFMN staff, volunteers, board members, committee members, sponsors, partner agencies, and donors.