The Family Church of Jamestown held a Veterans, Military, and First Responders Appreciation event Thursday, November 13th, bringing together service members, local heroes, and community residents for a night of recognition and gratitude.


Jamestown, NY – The Family Church of Jamestown held a Veterans, Military, and First Responders Appreciation event Thursday, November 13th, bringing together service members, local heroes, and community residents for a night of recognition and gratitude.

The event, organized by Jamestown City Revival, honored veterans from all eras, current military personnel, and first responders. Police, firefighters, EMS workers, dispatchers, and area veterans filled the sanctuary as community members gathered to thank them for their service.

“This is an event that we have done for several years now and we are excited to be welcoming dozens and dozens of local veterans, current military personnel and first responders,” said Tim Stahlman, pastor of Family Church of Jamestown.

Jamestown City Councilman and Army veteran Daniel Gonzalez said events like this shine a light on the people who keep communities safe. “Events like this really showcase and put the helpers on a pedestal and show that yes there are people out there doing the work to make their community safer and better,” he said. “I consider myself very lucky to be a part of that group of helpers who are working hard to make a difference in our community.”

Chautauqua County Director of Veterans Affairs Greg Carlson emphasized how meaningful the support is. “Only about 6% of the U.S. population is serving or is a veteran. It’s a unique experience, it’s unique to them, and when they see people come out just to celebrate them or appreciate them, it’s amazing to see how much that boosts them up, and makes them more proud of what they have done,” he said.

Law enforcement officials also expressed appreciation for the recognition, noting how rare it can be. “A lot of times people say that law enforcement is a thankless job, but to have events like this and to have the community come out and support us and everything that we are doing, it really means a lot to us in the law enforcement community,” said Jake Stahley, Captain with the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office.

All honored veterans, military members, and first responders received gas cards as a thank-you, along with a catered dinner held after the service.