Operation: Hats Off For Veterans (O:HOFV)
Pictured center is Texas Country Artist, Roger Creager. To the far right is his dad, William "Bill" Creager, a decorated U.S. Army Veteran. Both performed at our 2022 O:HOFV event. Unfortunately, Roger lost his father in March 2025. We were lucky to get a chance to meet this American hero, Sgt. Creager! Rest in peace, Sir.
OUR HISTORY:
Founded in 2005 and coordinated by Lisa Adams, this historic event was originally called Hats Off For Hospice. The goal was to raise funds to fulfill local hospice patients' end-of-life wishes. Thanks to so many supporters in the community, many wishes were fulfilled including hot air balloon rides, fancy meals, and many loving family portraits.
Special thanks to Kent Black (Black's BBQ), Larry Kruzie (Texas Old Town), and Texas Oncology San Marcos, for their continued support every year! They helped a lot of hospice patient's end-of-life dreams come true and now they are helping Veterans achieve their goals.
As the fundraiser grew over the years, the need to help our local Veterans and their families increased. After further discussion with our sponsors and partners, it was agreed that Hats Off For Hospice would become Hats Off For Veterans Inc., also known as Operation: Hats Off for Veterans (O:HOFV).
The goal of this annual fundraiser is to help local Veterans who are in need of financial assistance towards their first higher educational degree. This includes tuition, school supplies, and books. Funds are also used for an Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for Veterans to apply towards the cost of professional development and taking a certification or license test in a skilled trade. Some of these tests can be costly and are not covered by the employer.
Thanks to so many supporters and volunteers, O:HOFV has grown to become part of the Hays County community for 20 years in 2025!
Music artists who have performed to help support and raise funds for O:HOFV includes Jason Boland and the Stragglers, Stoney LaRue, Charlie Robison, Turnpike Troubadours, The Derailers, Roger Creager, Two Tons of Steel, Bart Crow Band, Cory Morrow, Bob Schneider, Reckless Kelly, Blue Water Highway, and many more!