Last month, our Dallas Area Director Thom Straley received a call from a couple who were interested in volunteering. This wasn’t a regular volunteer request – this was special. Katrina and Kevin, both Army Veterans, were getting married and wanted to bring their wedding party out to the Dallas Military & Veteran Food Distribution to volunteer as part of their wedding weekend!

Of course, the answer was yes!

Their love story

Kevin and Katrina met at a community event. They exchanged cordial greetings, unaware of the profound impact they would have on each other’s lives. Their first impressions were fleeting, yet there was an undeniable spark that lingered in the air, hinting at the possibility of something more.
They both learned that they served in the United States Army and attended a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Kevin attended Norfolk State University, and Katrina attended Grambling State University.

As fate would have it, Kevin and Katrina found themselves crossing paths time and time again at various events. Each encounter deepened their connection as they discovered shared interests and values. It was during one of these chance meetings that they found themselves seated at a dinner table, accompanied by a special guest – Kevin’s niece, Tiffany. Little did they know that this evening would mark the beginning of a beautiful journey together.


Why they chose to volunteer

They decided to volunteer during their wedding weekend because service is very important to them.

“We are both part of a civic organization, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, and service is very important to us,” says Katrina

Why Soldiers’ Angels?

“We called around, and Thom responded. He told me about the mission. Kevin and I are both Army Veterans and members of USAA, as are several members of our wedding party and guests. I have been with USAA for over 26 years, which was a great fit,” says Katrina.

Their wedding party brought so much joy and fun to the day, and it was so special to celebrate their love while serving others. Here’s the message they sent Thom after all was said and done.

“I wanted to extend my sincere gratitude for allowing our wedding party to volunteer during our wedding weekend. It was a truly special experience for all of us, and we are deeply appreciative of the opportunity to give back to the community during such a joyous occasion.

I also wanted to share with you the attached pictures from the volunteer event. They capture the spirit of collaboration, kindness, and the meaningful impact we were able to make as a team. It was a heartwarming experience, and we are grateful for the support and encouragement from yourself and the entire team.” -Katrina Baptiste-Knight

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