On November 8, 2018, the Yellow Ribbon Fund honored its founders, John Adams, David Branson, Denis Neill and Edward Quinn, Jr., at our 10th annual Gala.
The YRF Gala was held at the Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase, Maryland—the very same place where the nascent plans for the organization were conceived by members hosting wounded marines at a Thanksgiving luncheon there in 2004. The theme of the event was the “Roots of the Ribbon” referring to both the founders as roots of YRF and the military family caregivers who act as the roots of their families, anchoring them as they navigate their loved ones’ medical challenges. Celebrating with the founders were their families and special guests including Carol Bugg, the widow of Jim Bugg, YRF’s first Chairman of the Board. Many guests in attendance—service members as well as donors– had fond memories of the founders and their work and were there to help us honor them.
The keynote address was given by First Sergeant Matt Eversmann (Ret.), the hero of the Battle of Mogadishu, who was portrayed by Josh Harnett in the film Black Hawk Down. Matt spoke about the sacrifices service members have made and continue to make around the world and how YRF has impacted at least 20% of those injured in the War on Terror.
Retired Army Sergeant Adam Keys, who has inspired so many with his accomplishments and incredibly positive attitude despite the loss of his legs to an explosion in Afghanistan, took to the mic to present a hilarious stand-up comedy set that had guest howling with laughter.
Events like the Yellow Ribbon Fund Gala help support the service members, their caregivers and their families as they navigate medical crises and reintegrate into their home communities. You can make a difference in the lives of service members who have sacrificed so much in service to our country!
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