A Morning of Gratitude: Honoring Our Local Heroes at the 2025 Tribute to Heroes Breakfast
On July 1, the Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival proudly hosted its annual Tribute to Heroes Breakfast at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. This meaningful event recognized four remarkable individuals who have made a lasting impact on the Cedar Rapids community through their service, compassion, and leadership.
The 2025 honorees were Brian Eschen, Anne Dugger, John Thompson, and, in memoriam, Matt Kunkle. Each was honored for their outstanding contributions—whether through public service, volunteerism, or lifelong dedication to others—embodying the spirit of unity and resilience that defines our community.
Doors opened at 7:30 AM, and the program began at 8:00 AM with a ceremony filled with moving tributes and reflections. The event served as a powerful reminder of the everyday heroes who inspire and strengthen our city.
Following the program, attendees gathered outside the Veterans Memorial Building for the Flag Raising Ceremony on Mays Island, a free and public tradition that closed the morning on a patriotic note.
A special thank you to Eagle Point Solar for sponsoring the Flag Raising Ceremony and providing gift cards to our honorees. We also extend our gratitude to Cedar Memorial, Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Hy-Vee, and Green State Credit Union for their generous support of this event.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in honoring these inspiring individuals. We are deeply grateful to our 2025 heroes—and to the community that continues to support this important tradition. We look forward to continuing the Tribute to Heroes Breakfast in 2026.
