Lineworkers Honor Veterans with a Generous Gesture in Illinois
January 16, 2025
Marion, Illinois witnessed a heartfelt act amid icy challenges.
Following a harsh ice storm that struck Illinois, lineworkers from Ameren Illinois were not just restoring power but also warmed the hearts of veterans during their breakfast meet-up.
Interrupted but Unbroken Tradition
On January 8, veterans gathered at Riley’s Smokehouse in Marion for their bi-weekly meetup. This event brought together military veterans, including Ken Hilliard and Charlie Kemp from the U.S. Air Force, Debbie Brooks also from the Air Force, as well as Art Ambos, Dan Fruge, Gene Broombaugh, Herb Robinson, and Ron Philips from the Navy and Marine Corps.
The ice storm resulted in power outages, transforming the restaurant into a hub for lineworkers preparing for a day of recovery efforts.
A Moment of Mutual Respect
Amidst their breakfast, the veterans received a visit from the lineworkers, who expressed their appreciation, saying, “Thank you for your service.” The veterans responded with equal gratitude, “Thank you for yours.” This exchange highlighted mutual respect between the groups.
An Unexpected Gift
After the lineworkers departed, a server brought surprising news to the veterans: their breakfast had been covered by the lineworkers, leaving the veterans deeply moved.
Charlie Kemp took to Facebook to share the moment, expressing how touched the group felt by the gesture. “Can you imagine how we all felt? We should’ve bought theirs,” Kemp noted in his post.
One veteran remarked anonymously, “We greatly appreciate everything the Ameren Illinois lineworkers did for us,” further noting their gratitude for both the power restoration and the breakfast gift, hoping for a chance to thank them personally in the future.
