The Mountain Empire Chapter had their Social/Brunch Meeting on January 18, 2026 at the Blackthorn Club with 32 members and guests attending. After a wonderful brunch chapter President Don Thompson, Col USAF Ret. B called the meeting to order followed by a prayer from the Chapter Chaplain Kevin Selhorst, CWO4 USN Ret. and the Pledge of Allegiance. The board members reported on the status of their areas of responsibility to the chapter members.

We welcomed two new members to our chapter and they provided a brief of their military service. Welcome we welcome new members Lee Frakes, CPT ARNG Ret. and his wife Debi. Also John L. Bradley, Col USAF Ret. Next we received a brief from chapter member Gary Onyett, CPT USAF Ret. about a new military nonprofit organization called Soldiers’ Angels that helps all veterans. Gary is their local representative.

We received a brief from chapter member Tony Banchs, Col USA Ret. concerning the upcoming 25th anniversary of 911 on September 11, 2026. Tony provided some information on events that are in the planning stages to correspond with our country’s 250th anniversary. More details will be provided as they become available.
Last but not the least chapter members Keith Thompson, Maj USMC Ret. and Pat Shull, Col USA Ret. are Board Members on the Tennessee State Veterans’ Homes (TSVH). Website link tsvh.org. They have been instrumental in securing property for a state Veterans home in Kingsport.

They are working through some issues with the state approval but are confident that all issues will be resolved. Our Chapter is very thankful for all of our members that are continuing to serve our community.

President Don Thompson ended the meeting with several thoughts about the time around 911 and what followed with many troops being deployed. It was a very emotional moment for many of our chapter members.