Listen Here
Column by Ella Resor
resore@findlay.edu
I’m from a small town called New Knoxville, Ohio. Like many small-town kids, I was lucky enough to grow up surrounded by people who work hard, care deeply, and quietly give back. My dad, Jeremy Resor, served in the Marine Corps and later in the Army National Guard. From a young age, my relationship with him instilled in me a strong sense of patriotism — the kind that isn’t flashy or wavering, but instead is consistent and grateful.
When I was little, I couldn’t do much more than approach a veteran and say, “Thank you.” It was sincere, but I always felt like it wasn’t enough. As I got older and joined the New Knoxville FFA program, I realized I had the power to do more than just say the words. I could show them.
In 2021, as my passion project while serving as an officer in the FFA, I started something called the Patriot’s Breakfast — a 100% non-profit event designed to raise money for local veterans in need while bringing the community together to honor those who have served. With the help of event sponsors, the community, and a group of selfless volunteers, I was able to raise a little over $3,000 for the cause. In the years following, we broke $6,000 and then $7,000. I hope we break the record again this year.
Even after graduating and leaving my days in the FFA behind, the Patriot’s Breakfast is still one of the most meaningful things I do each year. This fall marks the fifth annual Patriot’s Breakfast, which will take place Sunday, Nov. 23, from 8 to 11:30 a.m. at the Wapakoneta Knights of Columbus Hall. All proceeds and donations will benefit local veterans through the Wapak VFW Post 8445, AMVETS Post 333, American Legion Post 330, the Auglaize County Veterans Service Office, and Save A Warrior in Hillsboro, Ohio.
Events like this remind me how powerful a community can be when it rallies behind a good cause. Every year, local businesses step up to sponsor the breakfast — covering the cost of the food, the hall, and the supplies — so that every dollar raised can go directly to the cause. Volunteers donate their time, neighbors bring their families, and the hall fills with laughter, handshakes, and stories shared over scrambled eggs and coffee.
It’s a simple morning, but it means a lot. It’s our way of saying thank you to the men and women, and their families, who have made so many sacrifices for our freedom.
To me, the Patriot’s Breakfast isn’t just a fundraiser. It’s a reminder of what gratitude looks like in action. It’s proof that as a community, we can all do more than just say the words.
So please, join us on Nov. 23. Come hungry. Come thankful. And help us serve those who served us.
