GLENDORA, Calif. (March 2026) —Veterans from across generations gathered for a weekly veteran breakfast on Tuesday, March 24, at Kara’s Korner Deli in Glendora, turning a simple meal into a space for connection, shared experiences, and ongoing support.
Owner Kara Larson has watched it grow from just a handful of attendees into a weekly tradition embraced by the community.
“We started with about five or six gentlemen, and now we’re up to 80 to 100,” Larson said. “It warms my heart. They’re the most wonderful men and women you’ll ever meet.”
What began as a small effort to bring veterans together has grown into a consistent weekly space for connection.
“We started this just to honor veterans,” said Ray Osborne, a Marine Corps veteran who helped launch the breakfast. “I wish we could clone it for other places for people.”
The support extends beyond those seated at the tables, with community members showing appreciation in small but meaningful ways.
“Cars drive by and honk, people make signs. It’s very touching,” Larson said. “We love having the veterans here and appreciate their service.”
The weekly gathering has become a consistent space where veterans can reconnect, build new relationships, and find a sense of belonging among others who share similar experiences.
“I’d like to say that this is one of the best things that’s ever happened because you meet guys that you think you forgot about,” said Dale Compton, an Army veteran who was stationed in Germany. “The only requirement here is that you wore the uniform.”
The space brings together veterans from all backgrounds and ranks, creating an environment where everyone is welcome.
“It makes a whole big difference if you don’t think you’re worthy,” Compton said. “We have everybody here, from privates all the way to generals.”
For many, the breakfast is more than a routine. It is a meaningful part of their week and a place to share openly with others who understand.
“I’m a Vietnam-era veteran, and I come here every Tuesday morning to have breakfast with my brothers and sisters,” said Michael Shuner. “It’s a place where we can share conversation, talk about our experiences, and just connect. Tuesdays are the highlight of my week.”
On March 24, the breakfast also included participation from the Veteran Peer Access Network Supervisorial District 1 (VPAN SD1), bringing additional resource connections directly to attendees.
“It’s a nice event to provide resources to the community and support local businesses,” said Leo Chirinos, VPAN SD1 Program Manager. “It’s really nice to get out here, break bread with veterans, and show them there are a whole range of resources available.”
VPAN connects veterans to critical services, including housing and legal assistance, mental health support, and help navigating benefits and claims.
“We’re so thrilled when we have different organizations such as the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs come here and make resources available,” said Keith Bushey, a founding member, known to friends as “The Colonel”. “If you’re a veteran within a country mile of Glendora and want to have some great chow and even better company, come on over on Tuesday mornings. We’d sure love to see you.”
While the March 24 event introduces additional resource support, the heart of the gathering remains the same, creating a space where veterans feel seen, valued, and connected.
Story and photo by Layla Romero, Public Information Staff Assistant, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
