Operation Red, White and Brave recently completed two special projects.

In mid-March, a group of First Service Bank employees and the ORWB Foundation installed a flag pole in the yard of a Gold Star family. Initiated during World War I, the title “Gold Star” recognizes the immediate family members who lost a loved one in military service.

“What an honor to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice by placing a flag pole at the home of their loved ones,” said Rebecca Barnard, board chairman of the ORWB Foundation.

The Foundation has been in contact with other Gold Star families, with plans to install 10 flag poles at homes over the next few months.

In addition to the flag pole, First Service bankers and the Foundation teamed up to build a wheelchair ramp for a veteran who needed assistance entering and exiting his home. The project was in response to an application for assistance received by the ORWB Foundation.

Operation Red, White and Brave was created in 2019 to support First Service Bank’s vision as well as one of its core values – patriotism. “Our mission is to celebrate, recognize and support the military, veterans and their families. We are helping through physical assistance and financial support in a variety of ways,” said Rebecca.

ORWB projects are made possible through donations and special fundraising efforts, like the inaugural Operation Red, White and Brave gala planned Thursday, June 15, at Herschel Hall in Greenbrier.

“When you donate to our foundation, 100 percent goes back to helping veterans, plus First Service Bank matches your donation dollar for dollar,” Rebecca said. “People and businesses can participate in our fundraising events as well as donate their time and resources to help support our foundation.”

If you would like to nominate a veteran for assistance, make a donation, or just learn more about ORWB, visit www.ORWB.org.