Supporters with Hope for the Warriors gather to experience the lives of the Marines who protect and serve them on Marine Corps Air Station New River, Aug.16.
"Today is actually part of a larger event called Hope for the Warriors invitational," said Robin Kelleher, President, CEO and co-founder for Hope for the Warriors. "(This) annual event that brings military leadership, celebrities and service members together to get to know each other, but more importantly to recognize the service of the Marines and Sailors who attended."
Hope for the Warriors, which celebrated their 10 year anniversary is a national nonprofit founded on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune to support combat wounded veterans and their families by raising funds and bringing awareness to their cause.
"The focus here is to acknowledge and show support for the Marines who they hold near and dear to their heart," said Master Gunnery Sgt. William Harris, the operations chief for SOI – East. "They came down here to see what they do so they can be more appreciative for what the Marines do."
Marines with SOI – East introduced themselves to the volunteers as they demonstrated gear and taught them about various weapons systems.
"It was very eye opening because they were very receiving," said Harris. "I think they have a concept of what we do, but they don’t truly know until they get their hands on a weapons system or they get to pick up the gear or see what kind of gear and vehicles we use on day-to-day operations."
Marines and supporters alike smiled and shared stories with each other throughout the day.
"I hope that both the Marines and Hope for the Warriors organization get a better understand for what we as Marines do, and the Marines understand how this organization supports us," said Harris. "It’s a long cycle, but it’s a good way to close the loop on what America expects from her Marines and what her Marines have developed into."
Date Taken: | 09.08.2016 |
Date Posted: | 09.08.2016 09:00 |
Story ID: | 209030 |
Location: | NEW RIVER , NC, US |
Web Views: | 21 |
Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Hope for the Warriors visit New River, by Sgt Sean Berry, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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