Uncle Matty Comes Home

A Home Away from Home for Veterans and First Responders

Krust Cafe

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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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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.