While some folks took time to recall 15 years ago on September 11 when two planes destroyed the Twin Towers, one plane flew into the Pentagon and still another plane missed its target thanks to strangers on board, the Helping Our Heroes organization used the occasion to raise funds for those in the military and first responders who have made incredible sacrifices. Here’s a report from the field:
On the 15th anniversary of 9/11, Helping Our Heroes gathered at Frontiers of Flight Museum to honor heroes in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and National Guard, as well as local police, firemen and first responders. The dinner and auction benefited Folds of Honor, which provides annual educational scholarships to the families of those killed or disabled while in active duty, and the Semper Fi Fund, which provides immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to critically ill and injured members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Approximately 200 people including Barbara and Trip Bomar, Justin Cleveland, Jerald Cleveland, John Christensen, Gail Leonard and Lisa and Mike Engles arrived to W. T. White’s Junior ROTC standing at attention. During the cocktail reception, guests perused the silent auction tables with items such as an autographed football from Emmitt Smith, Coco’s Bangles and dozens of restaurant and spa packages to name a few.
Promptly at 7:00 p.m., Event Co-Chair Mike Marasco introduced the Color Guard who presented the colors, and 15-year-old Lindsey Fish sang the National Anthem prior to guests sitting down for dinner. Event Co-Chair Travis Wilson introduced the 2016 Guest of Honor Gen. James F. Amos, 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps, who spoke about how his office at the Pentagon was destroyed after a plane hit the Pentagon and how America was changed following the attacks on September 11, 2001.
Local hero and this year’s Honorary Chair Cpl. Brian Aft also took the stage to tell his story as a Marine. On April 8, 2011, Aft struck an improvised explosive device while patrolling on duty in Afghanistan. Taking the brunt of the explosion, Aft suffered numerous injuries including the loss his lower extremities.
“The days after 9/11 were the worst of times, but they were also the best of times because people came together and were more appreciative and thankful for their country,” Gen. Amos said. “It is organizations like Helping Our Heroes that are truly making a difference in the lives of veterans and anyone who serves. “I am thankful for the opportunity to be here tonight.”
Following the remarks, Wes Pool of Murad Auctions led an energetic game of Heads and Tails before the live auction began. Guests bid on a variety of packages including a trip for four to Washington D.C., a Sunday night wine and food tasting at Chamberlain’s Steak and Chophouse, and a handmade quilt and signed KA-Bar.
On Monday, September 12, 2016, Gen. Amos joined golfers at Brookhaven Country Club for the second day of Helping Our Heroes fundraising efforts. More than 90 people grabbed breakfast tacos courtesy of Torchy’s Tacos before watching the presentation of the colors and singing the National Anthem. Following their morning on the course, the teams gathered for an awards ceremony and cookout lunch with hot dogs and chips provided by Frito Lay. Proceeds from both events benefited Semper Fi Fund and Folds of Honor.
* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron ** Photo credit: Rhi Lee