Former NFL All-Pro receiver Ed McCaffrey hosted the gala, which highlighted four categories of achievement. CEO Walt Piatt framed the event as a reflection of a collective promise to support warriors beyond their active duty, noting that the sustainability of these programs relies on partnerships across both the private sector and legislative halls.
Dawn Halfaker, a retired Army captain who commanded a platoon in Iraq, received the Courage Award for her resilience after sustaining combat injuries. The Service Award was presented to Joe and Daniel Murray and Gloria Shepherd, the owners of Virginia’s Stoney Creek Resort, who have funneled over $1 million into veteran programs through their annual Freedom Fest. Meanwhile, NCS Vehicle Donations accepted the Empowerment Award for its multi-year commitment to funding and volunteer engagement.
Legislative efforts were also center stage, with Senator Richard Blumenthal and Representative Mike Bost named Legislators of the Year. Blumenthal, the Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, was recognized for his role in the PACT Act, while Chairman Bost received the honor for his work on the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. Proceeds from the dinner are earmarked for the nonprofit’s long-term wellness and suicide prevention initiatives.
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