Lineworkers' Heartwarming Gesture Brings Smiles To Veterans After Ice Storm

January 16, 2025

Today's good news story comes from Marion, Illinois.

In the wake of a severe ice storm in Illinois, a group of Ameren Illinois lineworkers not only worked tirelessly to restore power but also delivered a touching act of kindness that warmed the hearts of eight veterans enjoying their routine breakfast.

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A Regular Gathering Interrupted by an Ice Storm

On January 8, a group of veterans gathered at their usual spot, Riley’s Smokehouse in Marion, Illinois. This bi-weekly tradition brings together these brave individuals who served in various branches of the military: Ken Hilliard, U.S. Air Force retired; Charlie Kemp, U.S. Air Force retired; Debbie Brooks, U.S. Air Force; Art Ambos, U.S. Navy retired; Dan Fruge, U.S. Navy; Gene Broombaugh, U.S. Navy; Herb Robinson, U.S. Marine Corps; and Ron Philips, U.S. Navy.

The ice storm had left many in the area without power, leading to a packed restaurant filled with lineworkers fueling up for another day of restoration work.

A Touching Encounter

As the veterans enjoyed their breakfast, the Ameren Illinois lineworkers wrapped up their meals and prepared to head out. Before leaving, the lineworkers approached the veterans’ table to express their gratitude.

“Thank you for your service,” the lineworkers said. In response, the veterans humbly replied, “Thank you for yours.” The exchange was a brief but heartfelt moment of mutual respect.

The Surprise Act of Kindness

Shortly after, the veterans’ server delivered an unexpected piece of good news: the lineworkers had quietly paid for all of their breakfasts before leaving.

Charlie Kemp later shared the heartwarming story on Facebook, emphasizing the appreciation felt by the entire group.

“Can you imagine how we all felt? We should’ve bought theirs,” Kemp wrote in his post.

“We greatly appreciate everything the Ameren Illinois lineworkers did for us,” said one of the veterans, who preferred to remain anonymous. “Not just for restoring power in our community, but for thanking us for our service and buying our breakfast. Hopefully, some day we can meet up with them to say, ‘Thank you very much.’”