WACO, Texas (KWTX) - Central Texas veterans gathered in Waco on Wednesday for a day of tribute and camaraderie at the 15th Annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon at the Lee Lockwood Library and Museum.

Organized by the Stan C. Parker Foundation, the milestone event offered local service members from all generations a space to connect, share stories, and receive a community-wide thank you."It means the world," said Austin Parker, President of the Stan C. Parker Foundation and the event's master of ceremonies.

"It really is a legacy that I am lucky enough to have a chance to carry on."Austin Parker, president of the Stan C. Parker Foundation and the event's master of ceremonies speaks to veterans at the 15th Annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon(Bradley Vaughn)The luncheon trace its roots back 15 years to Stan C. Parker, who began the tradition simply by cooking brisket to show his personal gratitude to active troops and veterans.