Despite a busy schedule of events throughout Vicksburg and the threat of inclement weather from then-Tropical Storm Francine, local volunteers and workers at The Salvation Army on Mission 66 came together Wednesday morning to host the annual Hero Breakfast, held each year for first responders on the anniversary of  September 11, 2001.

“We do this every year, but this is the first year we have had everyone back inside the facility,” Maj. Janna Torgerson with The Salvation Army said. “After the pandemic, we went to doing the outside drive-through only, but we were able to have them inside this year.”

While a kitchen full of workers prepared breakfast inside The Salvation Army building, the drive-through was still humming along outside for first responders without time to sit down for a meal. Also helping provide and pass out to-go meals was Vicksburg McDonald’s owners and operators Jeremy and Melanie Roach.

Vicksburg Fire Chief Derrick Stamps said the hard work that went into providing this year’s breakfast is appreciated, adding the meal is something his team looks forward to each year.

“The members of the Vicksburg Fire Department would like to express their deep appreciation to The Salvation Army, as well as to every individual who contributed to the organization and success of the 9/11 Hero Breakfast,” Stamps said. “Your support and involvement have not gone unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for your dedication and assistance in honoring our heroes.”