Brian Poag and his wife Tanya, owners of Jake’s Western Grill in Lynden, WA, have long recognized that first responders and active duty military personnel work hard to protect and serve every day, year-round.
They have also had an appreciation for Veterans and a personal desire to give back to that community.
“My dad was a proud Veteran of the United States Marine Corps” says Brian. “On Veteran’s Day 2014 he encouraged me to find a way to use Jake’s Western Grill to show gratitude to active duty military and Veterans. Tanya and I had wanted to do something like that in our business for a while but it just seemed to always be an afterthought, then my dad passed away in March. As Veteran’s Day approached, I felt very strongly that we needed to do something–he was definitely our inspiration to do something now.”
On November 11, 2015 Jake’s Western Grill launched a new discount program called “Honoring Heroes” for those who serve our country locally and globally.
First responders (like police, fire and EMT), border patrol agents, active duty military and U.S. Veterans can simply show ID and receive 20% off their meal at the Lynden restaurant. The discount is available every day the restaurant is open, year-round.
“This is one small way we can show heroes we are thankful for what they do every day—not just on national days of remembrance,” says Brian.
Launching the Honoring Heroes program is also a way for Brian to personally honor and remember his dad.
“When I see a Veteran or a service man or woman, I usually like to shake their hand and tell them ‘thanks for your service’. I hope this program shows not only are we thankful for the military personnel, but also to those first responders in our community that risk their lives to keep us safe daily.” says Brian.
The Poag’s have had a long history of giving back since they opened Jake’s Western Grill in 2008. Through the restaurant they have donated food and gift cards to nearly every school and athletic program in Whatcom County. They host benefit nights at the restaurant for local nonprofits and even support mission work in Honduras.
“Adding a program that benefits heroes felt like a natural fit.”
Learn more about Jake’s Western Grill and their Honoring Heroes program here: http://www.jakeswesterngrill.com/giving-back.html