On Veterans Day, Grace Church in Rupert, Idaho, became a gathering place for the region’s veterans. Pastor Travis Turner, a former Marine who served from 1990 to 1994, organized his fourth annual chili feed to thank the men and women who defended the nation.
Local veterans gather for a hearty meal
Turner estimates that the Mini‑Cassia area is home to roughly 2,500 to 3,000 veterans. “It’s weird, from day one you’ve got a battle buddy in the military and then when you get out you learn how to do life alone – so days like today it’s really support, getting back together and sharing stories and experiences,” he said.
The event provides more than a full belly of chili; it offers a firm handshake, a listening ear, and a reminder that no veteran is forgotten. “It doesn’t matter what branch you picked – you served, it doesn’t matter how long you served – you signed the dotted line… you became government property for a period of time – our great nation is great because of the men and women that said yes,” Turner added.
A personal journey of redemption
Turner’s own path to ministry was rocky. After leaving the Marine Corps, he fell into trouble, culminating in a DUI arrest and a stint in a Boise jail. In that low point, he prayed, “God if you’re real, you can have my life, because I’m done with it,” and, he says, experienced an immediate change of heart that set him on a new course.
He later founded Grace Church, where he now leads worship and community outreach. The chili feed is one of his most visible ways to give back, honoring fellow veterans and preserving their stories for younger generations.
Spotlight on a 97‑year‑old veteran
Among the attendees was Raymond W. McBride, a 97‑year‑old Mini‑Cassia veteran. McBride served as a Cryptographic Technician with the Air Force Security Service from 1948 to 1952, participating in the Berlin Airlift and the Korean War. “I served from 1948 to 1952 – Berlin Airlift and Korea. I signed for three, but the Korean War was not over, so they gave us one free of charge,” he recalled.
McBride’s presence underscored the event’s purpose: to keep the sacrifices of past generations alive. “They were willing to pay that ultimate cost – they knew that it could end in them not returning home – that’s worthy of recognition,” Turner said.
Faith, family, and community
Turner’s ministry emphasizes the importance of faith and family in the lives of veterans. He believes that the shared meal helps bridge the gap between military service and civilian life, offering a sense of belonging that many veterans miss after leaving the ranks.
Local residents have praised the event for its warmth and generosity. “Seeing our veterans honored like this reminds us of the values that built this community – faith, service, and family,” said one attendee.
Looking ahead
Turner plans to continue the chili feed for years to come, hoping to expand its reach to more veterans in the surrounding counties. He also hopes the tradition will inspire other churches and community groups to develop similar programs, reinforcing the nation’s gratitude toward those who served.
The annual chili feed stands as a testament to the power of faith‑driven service, demonstrating how one former Marine can rally a community around the timeless principle of honoring those who defended liberty.
Original reporting: KIVI Idaho News 6 Boise metro (local) — read the source article.
