The Fellas Are Veterans Continuing Their Service and Giving Back to Communities Nationwide

Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served in the military, and for many, it’s an opportunity to reflect on how service extends beyond the battlefield. Every year, a group of former Navy sailors known as The Fellas gathers to travel across the country, attend NFL games, and give back to the communities they visit. The group, spread across Florida and up the East Coast to Virginia, has made volunteerism a key part of their annual tradition and this year they chose to give back in Milwaukee at Hunger Task Force.

The Fellas originally served together on the USS Cape St. George guided missile cruiser during the late 1990s and early 2000s where they forged a brotherhood that endures to this day. “We’re like blood brothers,” says Napoleon Clay, one of the group’s founding members. “The camaraderie is hard to articulate.” Over the years, the group has expanded to include family members, fellow service members and friends they’ve made along the way.

Their tradition began as a fantasy football reunion, but in 2017, they decided to add a service component. When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, The Fellas, who were in town for a Texan game, volunteered with a local church to help with storm recovery. Since then, each trip has included volunteering in the cities they visit.

“We are so blessed to be in the position to travel, get together with friends and experience these games. We feel the honorable thing we can do is give back to the community,” said Clay.

This year, the group traveled to Wisconsin for the Packers vs. Cardinals game over Columbus Day weekend. Before heading to Green Bay, the Fellas visited Hunger Task Force and helped pack 600 Stockboxes, which provide free food to low-income seniors.

“As veterans, we know how important it is to support our community, especially those who have served and are in need,” said Clay. “We are proud to be able to help, especially when it comes to veterans and seniors who may not have access to the resources they need.”

At Hunger Task Force, we recognize the importance of supporting our veterans in Milwaukee. In addition to providing food assistance, Hunger Task Force works with organizations across the city to connect local veterans to essential programs, including FoodShare, which helps eligible individuals obtain more access to nutritious food.

The Fellas’ tradition is a powerful reminder that service continues long after military duty ends. By volunteering in cities they visit, they’ve found a way to make a lasting impact and honor their bond and give back to communities in need. We are grateful for their support and look forward to welcoming them on their next trip to Wisconsin.

Hunger Task Force is Milwaukee’s Free & Local food bank and Wisconsin’s anti-hunger leader. The organization’s core values are Dignity, Justice, Equity, Compassion and Stewardship. Hunger Task Force feeds people today by providing healthy and culturally appropriate food to hungry children, families and seniors in the community absolutely free of charge. Hunger Task Force also works to end future hunger by advocating for strong public policies and nutrition programs at the local, state and federal level.