Sam Covelli recognized for support of wounded military veterans

A local businessman was presented with a plaque to recognize him and his organization for their support of wounded military veterans.

The Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 606 presented a plaque to Sam Covelli for his support of the Combat Wounded Veterans of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

Sam Covelli is the CEO of Covelli Enterprises which is Panera Bread's largest franchisee.

Covelli Enterprises has supported the organization each year by raising money at nine Panera Bread locations in the Mahoning Valley. They've donated food for veterans in need during Thanksgiving and have been the annual sponsor of the Youngstown Phantoms Hockey Military Appreciation Night, which benefits the Purple Heart.

"Supporting veterans has always been near and dear to my heart since my father and our founder, Albert M. Covelli, was a World War II Veteran," said Sam Covelli. "We are thankful to partner with Military Order of the Purple Heart as they do so much good to assist combat veterans in need, right here in our local communities."