Uncle Matty Comes Home

A Home Away from Home for Veterans and First Responders

Krust Cafe

When I, Jim Farrell, set out to create a directory of businesses that genuinely support our nation's heroes, there was only one place that could be first:  Krust Cafe in Freehold. More than just a local eatery, it is the place to be. Krust Cafe has become a safe and grounded space for me to manage my PTSD, and the warmth and kindness of owners Anthony and Brandy Valasa and their entire staff are a big reason why. Every morning at 7:30 a.m., finding a place that feels like home is essential, and Krust Cafe is that place.
The Valasas, both corrections officers by trade, have created a uniquely welcoming atmosphere where conversations flow, stories are shared, and veterans and first responders are truly seen and appreciated. As a gesture of their gratitude, they offer a 15% discount for veterans and first responders. It's a place where the feeling of community is as nourishing as the food.  Krust Café sets the standard for what a truly veteran and first responder-friendly business should be. Their commitment to giving back to the community and their unwavering support for those who have served is why they hold the inaugural spot in this directory. Anthony, Brandy, and the staff are all considered friends, and I hope this introduction encourages you to visit and experience their exceptional hospitality for yourself. 

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 Café · Breakfast & brunch restaurant · Bakery

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Businesses That Support Our Veterans

At Uncle Matty Comes Home, we believe in honoring and supporting those who have bravely served our nation. We're proud to feature a directory of businesses dedicated to showing their appreciation for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. This page is more than just a list; it's a testament to the strong community spirit that recognizes the sacrifice and commitment of our military personnel.

Honoring service with meaningful support

The businesses listed here go above and beyond by offering special discounts and demonstrating a genuine commitment to the veteran community. They understand that a discount is more than just a reduction in price – it's a small gesture of gratitude for the sacrifices made to protect our freedoms.

Here's how these businesses are making a difference:

Valuable Veteran Discounts: Many businesses offer special discounts on their products and services as a direct way of showing appreciation. Military discounts have become a powerful way for businesses to attract and retain customers, demonstrating corporate social responsibility.
  • Supporting Worthy Causes: The initial businesses featured here have chosen to support the

Tunnel to Towers Foundation or St. Jerome's Church in the Bronx

through quarterly donations, demonstrates a dedication to giving back. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation provides mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families, while St. Jerome’s supports its community through various outreach programs. Building Community: These businesses are not just offering discounts; they are actively engaging with the veteran community and building lasting relationships.

Our Vision: Celebrating True Veteran Advocates

Our goal for this page is to spotlight businesses that offer truly great discounts and
consistently show respect for veterans. We understand that finding reliable veteran
discounts can sometimes be a challenge, so we aim to be a trusted resource for our
fellow veterans.

Join Us in Supporting These Businesses

We encourage you to explore the businesses listed on this page and consider
supporting them. By doing so, you’re not only getting a great deal but also showing your
appreciation for their commitment to our veterans.

My Hero General Collet

Brigadier General Patrick Collet, Commanding Officer, 11th Parachute Brigade, my hero and friend for life. General Collet located Uncle Matty’s historic rifle and moved heaven and earth to bring it back home to our family.

Born to be Airborne

Uncle Matty at Rockaway Beach, NYC in 1939. Notice the dog with him, my whole family loved dogs. Matty was in rock solid shape from playing all the New York City street games that would define him as “Born to be Airborne”

My Father Mickey Pictures 5a & 5b

My Father Mickey, all around tough guy from the streets of the Irish South Bronx. Love his beer and dogs! At McSherry’s Pub on 138th Street and Alexander Avenue, with my brother Jackie and his beloved Dalmatian Spanky. In WWII Mickey would be shot down, captured, and serve 9 months in the POW Camp Stalag Luft 3. This is the POW Camp from which the movie the Great Escape was made. Famous for saying “Let’s take it outside”

Matty’s Family

Father Richard, Mother Nora, Brother Jimmy, Sisters Ann and Francie. An Irish American Family growing up in the South Bronx, aka the 33rd county of Ireland. Living through the great depression, World War II and everything else the world threw at them.

Two Martin’s of the Greatest Generation

Uncle Matty – Martin Teahan and my father Martin Farrell represent the Greatest Generation. One was a Paratrooper who would die in combat, the other a Bombardier who would spend 9 months in a POW Camp, but survive. I would never understand my father, and later in life get to know the Uncle Matty very well, both would shape my life.

 
 

Uncle Matty’s Irish South Bronx

Uncle Matty smoking a cigarette while flirting with the girls in 1940. Behind his right shoulder is his best friend Peter Donahue. Matty was famous for his singing, dancing, and being the life of the party.