LVH–Schuylkill Continues Cherished Tradition of Honoring Local Veterans

Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Schuylkill, part of Jefferson Health, recently welcomed approximately 200 veterans and active-duty military members to its annual Veterans Breakfast at the LVHN Sports Performance Center on the campus of the Schuylkill Haven Area School District.

The gathering marked the hospital's 23rd Veterans Breakfast over the past 25 years, continuing a cherished tradition that paused only during the COVID-19 pandemic. More than a meal, the event serves as an opportunity for colleagues, families, and community members to come together and express their gratitude for those who have served our nation.

Guests enjoyed a hot breakfast featuring scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, French toast, creamed chipped beef (a longtime military favorite), fresh fruit, muffins, pastries, and plenty of hot coffee. Attendees included veterans who served during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and more-recent conflicts, as well as members of the National Guard and other branches of military service. The oldest attendee was 93 years old, and many familiar faces from past Veterans Breakfasts returned to reconnect with friends, fellow veterans, and hospital colleagues.

In addition to breakfast and fellowship, attendees were offered complimentary blood pressure screenings and received commemorative token giveaways as a small expression of appreciation for their service.

Established in 2001, the Veterans Breakfast began as a simple way to thank and honor local veterans. Originally held on the campuses of the former Pottsville Hospital and later Good Samaritan Hospital, the event moved five years ago to its current location at the LVHN Sports Performance Center, where it continues to grow while maintaining its warm, hometown atmosphere.

Hospital colleagues, many accompanied by their children, volunteered their time to serve breakfast, greet guests, and visit with veterans throughout the morning. Members of the local American Legion and Vietnam Veterans Post 29 provided the colors and flags, adding a patriotic touch to the event.

One of the morning's most meaningful moments was a slideshow featuring photographs from Veterans Breakfasts over the past quarter century. The images sparked memories and conversations among attendees as they reflected on friendships formed through the years and remembered fellow veterans who had attended in the past. The presentation also served as a tribute to the many World War II veterans who were once regular guests and whose presence is fondly remembered.

"I am so proud of our colleagues and their families for stepping up to do this each year," said Terry Purcell, MBA, Regional Chief Operating Officer for Jefferson Health–Lehigh Valley Region. "This breakfast is one small way we can show our appreciation for the men and women who have served our country. We are deeply committed to our community, and our veterans deserve every bit of thanks and recognition we can give them."

Hess Catering of Schuylkill Haven prepared the meal, while Meyers House of Flowers of Pine Grove provided floral arrangements.

For many veterans, the annual breakfast has become a tradition of its own, offering an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, share stories, and feel the appreciation of a grateful community. For LVH–Schuylkill colleagues and their families, it remains one of the year's most meaningful opportunities to say "thank you" to those who have served.