On September 14, 2024, the Spring Branch community came together to celebrate the 6th Annual Boots & Heroes Gala, hosted by VFW Post 8790. This gala, held at the VFW Spring Branch Victory Ballroom, was not only a fundraiser but a night to honor veterans for their service and recognize the unwavering support of local organizations, such as the Spring Branch Management District. With 290 attendees and $53,000 raised, this year’s event is being hailed as the most successful yet.

Patricia Maddox, Chair of the Spring Branch Management District, was among the evening’s honorees. Maddox was surprised with a special recognition for the district’s longstanding support of the VFW, which has included sponsorship of events, donations of critical resources, and logistical support like providing photographers and videographers for the gala. “The Spring Branch Management District has always been there for us whenever we needed them,” said Catherine Alexander, President of the VFW Post 8790 Auxiliary. Patricia Maddox, Chairman of the Spring Branch Management District in particular, has been a steadfast ally in the post’s efforts to serve veterans and their families.

The night featured 11 live auction items and 40 silent auction items, all of which were successfully sold, contributing to the approximate $53,000 raised. The funds will be divided among three key organizations: Camp Shield, an organization supporting female veterans suffering from PTSD; the VFW Auxiliary, which provides services to veterans’ families, children, and communities; and the VFW itself, which continues its mission of honoring and aiding veterans.

Honoring Veterans Across Generations

In keeping with the event’s tradition, five distinguished veterans were honored for their service and their contributions to the community post-military. Each honoree’s story was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and the lasting impact they have on their communities.

• Roger Hernandez, a veteran of the Iraq and Kuwait wars, was recognized for his resilience in the face of PTSD. After serving in both the Army and the Air Force, Hernandez returned home and faced the challenges of PTSD, but he now works as an advocate for other veterans struggling with the same issues. Hernandez currently works at Energy Bank and uses his story to inspire veterans to persevere through difficult times. Roger is a true example of how veterans can overcome challenges and continue making a difference in their communities. He shows that PTSD doesn’t have to define your life.
• Irene Infante was honored for her tireless work with homeless veterans and her efforts to provide comfort items to veterans in VA hospitals. Infante has been a commander of two American Legion post. She has won numerous awards for her community service. “Irene goes above and beyond every day,” said Alexander. “She collects food from different organizations, clothing, candy and all kinds of items and delivers them to veterans in need throughout Houston. On top of that, once a month, she has a sewing group that makes the comfort pillows and blankets for those at the VA hospital.” Infante is not just a volunteer; she’s a lifeline for so many veterans who have been forgotten. Her work truly embodies the spirit of service.
• The gala also paid tribute to Mike Contreras, a Navy veteran from the Korean War, who was a longtime leader within the VFW organization and VFW Post 8790. Contreras served as District 4 Commander and Quartermaster at the Spring Branch post. Though he passed away in April, his legacy continues through his family and the countless veterans he mentored. “Mike’s commitment to the VFW and the veteran community was unparalleled,” said Alexander. “We miss him dearly, but his spirit is still with us.”
• A posthumous honor was given to Stewart Morris, Sr., a World War II veteran who passed away in March at 105 years of age.  Stewart Morris attended Naval Midshipman School at Columbia University to prepare to enter service in World War II serving in the Pacific as an executive officer aboard LST 38 in 7 horrific invasions. Founder of Stewart Title, Houston Baptist University now Houston Christian University, and a philanthropist. Stewart Morris was a man of faith and vision a forward thinker always looking to the future.   Stewart Morris created the Veteran Student Service at Houston Christian University to encourage veterans by providing peer mentorships, work-study opportunities, career readiness programs and academic support. The foundation for his life was Faith, Family and Friends. He was an encourager, innovator, accomplisher, leader, and he was usually the center of attention for those around him.  One of his many Stewartisms, “The World Turns on Personalities.”
• Finally, A posthumous honor was given to Thelma Williams, Thelma Williams was a 1st Sgt in Germany during WWII and 1st Sgt in Japan during Korean War. Williams served the U.S. Army Corps from 1943-47, serving in Europe and Japan.  Willams passed in July at the age of 104.  “I was very fortunate to serve in the occupation forces in Germany and Japan and in all, I had a very good experience,” Williams said. “I would do it all over again in a heartbeat if I were many, many years younger. At first, I joined the American Legion for the dinners that they had, but then later I came to enjoy the camaraderie and worked a lot with the American Legion Auxiliary.”

A Night of Community Support

One of the highlights of the evening was the incredible meal, made possible by the generous contributions of local restaurants, including Feges BBQ, Church’s Chicken and Blood Bros. BBQ. Over 400 steaks were cooked and served, with fresh beef provided by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Steering Committee. No one left hungry, and the positive feedback about the food and atmosphere was overwhelming.

Guests were also treated to a pre-event reception featuring a veterans’ art show, showcasing work from talented local veterans, and a display of the Women Marines uniforms throughout the years collected by Rosa Frank-Osborn, Chief Warrant Officer 4 CWO04.

“We wanted the night to be more than just a fundraiser,” said Alexander. “It was about bringing people together, sharing stories, and showing what our veterans mean to us. From the food to the art to the heartfelt speeches, everything reflected that.”

Sherman Chow from KHOU 11 served as the evening’s MC, while former Houston City Council Member Mike Knox led the award presentations. Guests enjoyed live and silent auctions, with the highlight of the night being the auction of a dinner for 12 at a local fire station, hosted by the 2025 Houston Firefighters Calendar team. “That auction was a hit,” said Alexander. “Everyone loves the firefighters!”

As the night wound down, Catherine Alexander reflected on the event’s success and the community’s generosity. “We couldn’t have done it without the support of so many people and organizations,” she said.

“This gala was about more than just raising money—it was about raising awareness, honoring our veterans, and strengthening our community. The funds we raised will go a long way in helping veterans and their families, and we’re incredibly grateful.”

Looking Forward

As VFW Post 8790 and the Spring Branch community look ahead, there’s already excitement for next year’s gala. “Each year, this event gets bigger and better,” said Alexander. “We’re already thinking about ways to make next year even more impactful.”

The continued partnership between VFW and the Spring Branch Management District will remain a cornerstone of this effort. “We are so fortunate to have such a strong relationship with the Spring Branch Management District,” said Alexander. “Their support allows us to keep doing what we do best serving those who have served.”

You can learn more about the VFW Spring Branch Post at:  Veterans’ Organization | Spring Branch Houston | VFW Post 8790