As we kick off season five of the VER S.O.S. Podcast, we are honored to feature Susan L. Combs, founder of Pancakes for Roger Inc., and dive into how a personal act of love became a global movement that supports veterans and their families.
Celebrating Service and Gratitude: The Story of Pancakes for Roger
Every movement starts with a spark, and for Susan L. Combs, that spark came from a single, heartfelt request: pancakes for breakfast. Her father, the late Major General Roger E. Combs, a decorated military leader, made this request during his hospice care. Though seemingly simple, it was a profound reminder of life’s small joys, the value of family, and the enduring legacy of service. What followed was an inspiring campaign that has turned pancakes into a global symbol of gratitude and support for veterans.
A Legacy of Service
Major General Roger E. Combs dedicated his life to service, having served in three branches of the armed forces—a rare and remarkable achievement. Known as a mentor, leader, and pillar of his community, Roger embodied integrity and compassion. His ability to see the best in people and bring it out in them left an indelible mark not only on those around him but also on his hometown of King City, Missouri.
Susan recalls a defining moment: the day after her father’s passing, she noticed the local post office had lowered its flag to half-mast. In that small act, she saw the profound impact her father had on others. This moment became the cornerstone of her commitment to honoring his memory through service to others.
The Birth of Pancakes for Roger
Susan L. CombsWhat happened next was extraordinary. Photos and messages poured in from all over, with people using the hashtag #PancakesForRoger to honor both Susan’s father and the veterans in their lives. People shared stories of military service, community support, and the joy of gathering around the table.
This simple act of sharing pancakes evolved into an annual tradition in February, Major General Roger’s birthday month. For every public post with the hashtag, Pancakes for Roger Inc. makes a donation to the University of Missouri School of Law Veterans Clinic.
From a Simple Request to Global Impact
The campaign has grown exponentially. In its most recent year, the initiative reached:
- 29 countries (yes, including Antarctica!)
- All 50 states in the U.S.
- Thousands of participants, raising over $10,000 for veteran services.
The Veterans Clinic provides free legal aid to veterans and their families, helping with VA claims, discharge upgrades, and appeals. It has recovered over $16 million in benefits for veterans in its decade-long history.
In December 2023, Susan took the campaign to the next level by officially incorporating Pancakes for Roger Inc. as a nonprofit organization. Its mission is to create pathways for veterans to thrive by funding legal aid, entrepreneurial grants, and community support programs.
Creativity Meets Gratitude: How You Can Participate
Pancakes for Roger isn’t just about eating pancakes; it’s about creativity, community, and giving back. Each February, participants get creative with their submissions, competing for awards like:
- Most Patriotic Pancake
- Craziest Location for Pancakes (last year’s winner? Antarctica!)
- Best Pancake Design
Whether it’s pancakes on a mountain, a creative stack shaped like your favorite symbol, or simply enjoying breakfast with loved ones, every photo counts.
How to Get Involved:
- Snap a Photo: Take a picture of yourself enjoying pancakes (or a creative alternative like crepes or waffles).
- Post Publicly: Share the photo on social media using #PancakesForRoger and tag the official account.
- Encourage Others: Spread the word by sharing the campaign with friends and family.
Every photo posted during February contributes to the growing impact of this incredible initiative.
Looking Ahead: Big Dreams for Pancakes for Roger
Susan has ambitious goals for the nonprofit. Beyond its February campaign, the organization is working to:
- Build an endowment fund to provide grants for veteran entrepreneurs, such as a proposed “Soldier Shark Tank” competition.
- Partner with organizations like the Travis Manion Foundation and QRF Up, which support veterans in crisis.
- Expand into housing solutions for veterans, including tiny homes for those undergoing medical treatments or in transitional periods.
Susan also envisions partnerships with national pancake chains like IHOP to create awareness campaigns and fundraisers, further amplifying the reach.
Why Pancakes?
“Pancakes are more than food; they’re a symbol of warmth, connection, and family,” Susan says. “When we come together over something as simple as pancakes, we’re reminded of the blessings in our lives and the importance of giving back.”
Whether it’s through a plate of pancakes, a donation, or simply spreading the word, Pancakes for Roger is proof that small acts of love can ripple outwards to create extraordinary change.
Join the Movement
This February, honor the legacy of service and gratitude by participating in Pancakes for Roger. Share a photo, connect with your community, and support a cause that uplifts those who’ve served.
To learn more, visit PancakesForRoger.org, and don’t forget to follow them on social media for updates, inspiration, and highlights from this year’s campaign.
Closing Thought
As we celebrate this heartwarming campaign, let’s remember Major General Roger E. Combs’ wisdom: “If you receive good advice, it’s your duty to pass it on.” Pancakes for Roger is passing on more than advice—it’s passing on gratitude, connection, and support for those who’ve given so much.
This February, let’s make a difference, one pancake at a time.
