Watts Chapel Veterans' Brunch 4

On November 5th, 2026, Watts Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Veterans of Watts Ministry (VOW) held its 4th Annual Veterans Brunch for our Church Veterans in celebration and recognition of Veterans Day. The Veterans of Watts Ministry welcome Brigadier General (RET) James R. Gorham for a special Veterans Brunch as we honor and celebrate the men and women who have served our country. Spouses, surviving spouses, and caregivers were invited to attend. The event was held in Watts Chapel Missionary Baptist Church’s multipurpose room in Raleigh, NC. Ms. Sharima Jackson, Ministry Leader of Veterans of Watts Ministry (VOW), gave the welcome and opening remarks, and Rev. Gayle Johnson gave the opening prayer. Theme music for each branch of service remembered fellow veterans, church member Deacon Eugene Weeks, and MIA/POW. Charles T. Norwood American Legion Post 157 members and members of the Buffalo Soldiers were honored to participate and recognize the veterans. The food and beverages were provided for the guests Guest speaker: Brigadier General (RET) James R. Gorham North Carolina National Guard. Highlights of his service include: First African-American General in the history of the North Carolina National Guard. 38-year military career, (North Carolina National Guards, (retired 2012). Deployed to Iraq (2004). Former Vice President, First Citizens Bank (retired 2010), Motivational speaker, author, and community leader. Member, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. A closing prayer was given by Rev. Gayle Johnson at the end of a very successful event.

Ms. Sharima Jackson, Ministry Leader of Veterans of Watts Ministry (VOW), gave the welcome and opening remarks.

Ms Sharon Brown and Mrs. Denise Williams VOW secretary at the sign-in table

Legionnaire Frank Winchester and VOW member greeting Leonard and Deborah Hinton after they signed in

Guest speaker: Brigadier General (RET) James R. Gorham North Carolina National Guard.

The caterers who prepared some delicious food that was served at the event

Legionnaire Greg Bethea and a member of Veterans of Watts (VOW) introduce the guest speaker.

Brigadier General (RET) James R. Gorham North Carolina National Guard. Highlights of his service include: First African-American General in the history of the North Carolina National Guard. 38-year military career, (North Carolina National Guards, (retired 2012). Deployed to Iraq (2004). Former Vice President, First Citizens Bank (retired 2010), Motivational speaker, author, and community leader. Member, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.