Annual Celebration Recognizes Outstanding Supporters of Veterans and Public Safety Heroes
HAMDEN, Conn., February 12, 2025 – House of Heroes Connecticut (HOHCT) will honor four exceptional supporters at its ninth annual Hearts & Heroes Gala on March 22, presenting the prestigious William J. May III Service Above Self Awards. These awards recognize individuals and organizations that have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the HOHCT mission of assisting military and public safety veterans.
The awards, established in 2019 in memory of HOHCT co-founder Bill May, a 24-year Army Aviation veteran and Black Hawk test pilot, are given annually in three categories: Sponsor of the Year, Craftsmen of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year. The Strength in Service Award, a special distinction, is occasionally presented to recognize unique and outstanding contributions to veterans and their communities.
2024 Honorees
Liberty Bank – Sponsor of the Year
A committed HOHCT partner since 2022, Liberty Bank has provided both financial support and volunteer engagement, contributing to four veteran service projects, including two in 2024. Beyond direct project sponsorships, Liberty Bank is also the presenting sponsor of the Golden Kielbasa Veterans Open, Connecticut’s largest veterans charity golf event, where HOHCT serves as the lead beneficiary.
Pat Munger Construction Company, Inc. – Craftsmen of the Year
In June 2024, a team from Pat Munger Construction Company, Inc. played a pivotal role in a life-changing project for a Marlborough veteran. The company’s skilled professionals rebuilt a deteriorating 52-foot hillside stairway, ensuring the homeowner’s safe access to critical medical treatments. The project, completed with support from The Inspired Kitchen, PCX Aerosystems, and Bane Property Management, exemplifies the power of skilled craftsmanship in service to those who served.
Paul Strom – Volunteer of the Year
HOHCT relies on dedicated volunteers like Paul Strom, a retired 35-year lineman for CL&P/Eversource and former sheet metal tradesman. Paul has become an indispensable member of the HOHCT team, consistently stepping up—often on short notice—to manage projects and tackle complex repairs. His skills and dedication have been instrumental in advancing HOHCT’s mission.
Steve LePage – Strength in Service Award
As Superintendent of Schools for Northwestern Regional School District No. 7, Steve LePage has been a steadfast advocate for HOHCT since 2016, inspiring students to embrace service and patriotism. In 2024, he led a group of 20 high school students in assisting an 85-year-old Navy veteran in Winsted, providing a complete property makeover. Steve’s mentorship continues to shape the next generation of service-minded citizens.
A Night of Celebration and Support
The 2025 Hearts & Heroes Gala will take place at The Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville, featuring the theme “Country Nights: A Western Salute to Service.” The evening will include:
- Saloon-style games
- Live entertainment by American Honey
- Dinner, dancing, and open bar
- Premium raffle and silent auction
This event serves as HOHCT’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting its mission to provide no-cost, safety-focused home improvements to veterans and their surviving spouses. Since its founding, the Connecticut chapter has helped over 250 veterans, contributing to a national impact of more than 1,000 veterans served.
Get Involved
Tickets are $130 per person, with additional sponsorship and advertising opportunities available. To purchase tickets, reserve tables, or explore sponsorship options, visit www.hohct.org/countrynights.
For more information about House of Heroes Connecticut and its mission, visit www.hohct.org.
Media Contact:
Dennis Buden
House of Heroes Connecticut
860-558-0514
dennisb@houseofheroesct.org
