Save the Date September 6 , 2025 The Veterans picnic has been scheduled. 10Am to 5:00
Welcome
Welcome to Operation Firm Handshake
We did our duty - now let's enjoy a day together!
About Operation Firm Handshake
Our Story
Operation Firm Handshake was dreamed up by Max Valdez and Joe Guereca, as they were talking over a few beers in the Coal City Area Club. Joey, active with veterans in Chicago, mentioned how he would like to have a picnic for his veterans down here. He then said, "Or better yet, a picnic for all veterans and their families - there isn't anything like it in Illinois!" Max liked the idea and said, "I can make that happen".
Map
The annual picnic is held at the Coal City Area Club Pavilion, which is located just 1.4 miles north of IL-113 at the corner of N. Broadway and E. Whitetie Roads.
Address:
1500 N. Broadway Road
Coal City, IL 60416
Click on the map image to download a printable version.
Photo Gallery
The first Operation Firm Handshake event took place in 2013. Browse the Photo Gallery to view images and save them to your computer. Have pictures to share? Please contact us!
Sponsors
Operation Firm Handshake would never have taken off without the vision of Joe Guereca and Max Valdez. That vision is sustained by the ongoing generousity of donors from our community and beyond.
