DeTar Staff Turn Veterans Appreciation into Community Support

7/22/2026

What began as a tribute to local veterans has grown into a meaningful effort to support those who have served our nation.

Earlier this year, DeTar Healthcare System dedicated a new Veterans Parking Area at DeTar Hospital Navarro, creating reserved parking spaces as a visible symbol of gratitude for veterans who visit the facility. The dedication recognized the sacrifices and service of military veterans while reinforcing DeTar’s commitment to honoring those who have worn the nation’s uniform.

Inspired by the success of the parking area dedication, DeTar employees looked for another way to demonstrate their appreciation. The result was the creation of special “Thank You Veterans” Salute to Service T-shirts, which staff members wear on Fridays throughout the year.

More than just a show of support, the T-shirt initiative also serves a greater purpose. Proceeds from shirt sales are being donated to VFW Post 4146, helping the organization continue its mission of serving veterans and their families throughout the Victoria community.

Thanks to the generosity of DeTar employees and supporters, the campaign raised $1,314.05 for VFW Post 4146.

“This means so much to veterans in our community,” Joseph Lefferts, a U.S. military veteran and a volunteer with DeTar Pastoral Care Volunteers, said. “The Veterans Parking Area was a wonderful gesture of appreciation, but seeing DeTar employees continue that support through this T-shirt fundraiser shows that their commitment to veterans extends far beyond a single event. It reminds veterans that their service is remembered and valued.”

DeTar Healthcare System CEO Brett Maxfield said the initiative reflects the organization’s culture of service and community involvement.

“Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices in service to our country, and we are honored to recognize them in meaningful ways,” Maxfield said. “The Veterans Parking Area and the Salute to Service T-shirts are visible reminders of our gratitude, but what makes this effort especially meaningful is that it also provides support to fellow veterans through VFW Post 1446. I’m incredibly proud of our staff for embracing this initiative and helping make a difference in the lives of those who have served.”

For local veterans, Post 4146 is a community hub where they can share a meal with multiple generations of veterans from all branches of the military. It’s a place where they can feel a deep sense of camaraderie and share their experiences with their fellow veterans. DeTar’s donation will help the VFW maintain their building as a gathering place for combat veterans and their families.

“This money will help us serve our community,” Louisa Rosalez, post commander for VFW Post 4146, said. “Our mission is to support combat veterans of foreign wars and their families in need but also to support our community and give back where we can such as with our annual fish fry and our weekly hamburger night on Wednesdays.”

This donation presentation represents the latest chapter in DeTar’s ongoing efforts to honor veterans, bringing together employees, volunteers and community partners in a shared mission of gratitude and service. Through initiatives like these, DeTar continues to demonstrate that supporting veterans is not just a one-day event, but an ongoing commitment to those who have dedicated their lives to protecting others.

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