Twenty Years of Honoring Yountville’s Veterans With Celebrity Chefs

By Tim Carl

Nov 11, 2024

YOUNTVILLE, Calif. — Held on Nov. 6, just days ahead of Veterans Day, the 20th Annual Celebrity Chefs Veterans Day Luncheon at the Veterans Home of California in Yountville was more than just a meal — it was a genuine tribute to service, camaraderie and the bonds that unite a community. Organized in partnership with the Yountville Chamber of Commerce, the event brought together residents, chefs and volunteers to honor those who have served in the U.S. military, marking the 140th year of the Veterans Home, a historic institution cherished throughout Napa Valley.

“This isn’t just an event; it’s a gathering of hearts and hands,” said Chef Bob Hurley, a retired restaurateur and the driving force behind the luncheon since its inception two decades ago.

“Twenty years ago, Cindy Saucerman, who was then president of the Yountville Chamber of Commerce, and I wanted to do something special for the veterans, many of whom couldn’t experience the fine dining that Yountville had become known for. We decided to bring the experience to them, and it has become a beloved tradition for the veterans and the community alike. Cindy recently passed, but her spirit and dedication to this event continue to inspire us each year.”

The 2024 participating chefs - Bob McClenahan Photo

Hurley, along with renowned chefs from local favorites such as Brix, Bottega, Lucy Restaurant and Bar, Bouchon Bakery and Mustards Grill, crafted a menu that upheld Napa Valley’s culinary standards. The meal opened with a Maine lobster bisque crafted by Chef Cary Delbridge of Brix, followed by a grilled hanger steak and an array of sides, including Bistro Jeanty’s famous mashed potatoes and Parker House rolls from Bouchon Bakery. Dessert, a banana chocolate bread pudding with caramel sauce from Mustards Grill, capped the meal with a touch of indulgence. For those seeking a vegetarian option, Chef Rick Edge of Lucy Restaurant & Bar offered a crustless caprese quiche with arugula and portobello.

Dennis Kaufmann, a Vietnam-era veteran - Tim Carl Photo

Several Napa Valley wineries also contributed, providing selections that were enjoyed with each course, adding a local touch to an already meaningful celebration.

“And the wine!” said Dennis Kaufmann, a Vietnam-era veteran, as he savored the hanger steak. “We didn’t have that during the pandemic, and it’s wonderful to see it back. It’s a little thing, but it makes a difference.”

“This is the best meal they have all year long,” said Delbridge, who has participated in the event for several years. “The veterans’ smiles and their appreciation make it worth every effort. It’s not just about food — it’s about respect.”

For Jeries Jouaneh, a chef at the Veterans Home who has worked there for nearly 15 years, the luncheon holds deep personal meaning.

“This day isn’t about us as chefs. It’s about them — the veterans. They’re the true celebrities here,” he said. “I’ve worked all over, but here, it’s different.”

Jouaneh, who grew up in the restaurant business and joined the Veterans Home to find a balance between his passion and family life, said, “Serving these veterans gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment that’s unmatched.”

CEO of the Yountville Chamber of Commerce, Whitney Diver McEvoy - Tim Carl Photo

The Veterans Home of California, established in 1884, is the oldest and largest veterans home in the state, providing long-term care to veterans from various conflicts. Over the years, the home has grown into an integral part of Yountville’s identity, with generations of local families involved in supporting its residents. The annual luncheon has become a cherished occasion, offering the veterans a rare experience of white-tablecloth dining, complete with a selection of wines — a tradition that many attendees look forward to as a small but meaningful luxury.

Whitney Diver McEvoy, president and CEO of the Yountville Chamber of Commerce, expressed her pride in the town’s connection to the Veterans Home.

“We wouldn’t be the Yountville we are today without the Veterans Home,” she said. “This event is a way for us to give back to those who’ve sacrificed so much, but it also strengthens our community. It brings people together, from volunteers to local chefs, to recognize and honor our veterans. That’s the essence of community.”

For volunteer Tammy Cruze, the luncheon is a chance to reconnect with a place that holds personal significance.

“I started volunteering here as a kid, reading to veterans and playing games with them,” she said. “When I retired and moved back to Yountville, I knew I wanted to return to the Veterans Home. It’s a privilege to be here with these people. They’ve given so much, and I get a sense of fulfillment every time I spend time with them.”

Long-time volunteer Tammy Cruze - Tim Carl Photo

One of the most touching aspects of the event was the multigenerational involvement, exemplified by Delbridge, who brought his young son, Matthew, along to volunteer.

“This is the third year Matthew has joined me,” Delbridge said. “He’s a Boy Scout, and it’s important to me that he learns the value of giving back to those who served our country. Plus, it’s a lot of fun for him, and he gets to skip school.”

Chef Cary Delbridge and his son, Matthew - Tim Carl Photo

The Veterans Day luncheon also provided a rare opportunity for veterans to share their stories with the community. Jim LeCuyer, a Navy veteran and first-time attendee, reflected on his journey from the USS Eldorado, a command ship during the Cold War era, to his current life at the Veterans Home.

“The food is incredible, but more than that, it’s the connections,” he said. “I’ve met other vets here, shared stories, and it’s a reminder that we’re not alone.”

Jim LeCuyer, a Navy veteran - Tim Carl Photo

The event culminated in a moment of gratitude led by community and Veterans Home leaders. Holly Holtzen, the recently appointed administrator, acknowledged the importance of such gatherings in creating a sense of continuity and belonging.

Holly Holtzen was appointed administrator of the Veterans Home of California-Yountville on Sept. 20, 2024 - Tim Carl Photo

“This is an amazing tradition,” she said. “The Veterans Home has a rich history, and events like this remind us of our commitment to honor and care for those who served. The lives our veterans have led, their stories — they deserve to be celebrated, and it’s an honor for me to be part of this community.”

As the luncheon came to a close, veterans and guests lingered over the last bites and sips, sharing laughs and swapping stories. For Kaufmann, the wine and fine food brought a touch of luxury to an otherwise ordinary day.

“This is the best piece of meat I’ve ever had,” he said, his plate cleaned to the last bite.

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Nearby, Wyonna Wire, a former Marine, reflected on the event’s meaning.

“It’s not just the food — it’s the people,” she said. “Every year, I love talking with new faces and old friends. Veterans Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a time to honor the sacrifices made and to remember that we’re all part of something bigger. This luncheon is special, and I look forward to it every year.”

Wyonna Wire, a former Marine - Tim Carl Photo

In Yountville, the Celebrity Chefs Veterans Day Luncheon isn’t just an event; it’s a meaningful tradition that brings generations together to honor service, build community and celebrate the enduring spirit of those who have worn the uniform.

Resources and Support for Veterans

Find FAQs on VA benefits, step-by-step guides for VA.gov tools and other helpful resources to support veterans at all stages online.

Veterans Crisis Line

Veterans in crisis or concerned about one can access free, confidential support 24/7 by calling 988 and pressing 1, chatting live or texting 838255. Available for veterans, service members, National Guard, Reserve members and their supporters, this service provides a connection with qualified responders to listen and assist along with connections to local resources. For those overseas, contact regional numbers or DSN 988 (off base and on base options available). No VA enrollment is necessary.

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Tim Carl is a Napa Valley-based photojournalist.