Wounded Warrior Project Gala

On May 14th, Veterans Advantage attended the Wounded Warrior Project’s (WWP’s) annual Courage Awards & Benefits Dinner, and hosted a table with guests to include a wounded warrior Peter Sunderland and his wife, Melissa. The black tie event was held at Cipriani in New York and over 700 people attended–a sold out Event and a dramatic backdrop adjacent to New York’s Grand Central Station, truly a successful event for WWP, a strategic partner of Veterans Advantage.

The evening was quite emotional and moving as WWP Founder John Melia spoke of his dream to create an organization that cared for our military who have paid a heavy price with physical, emotional and stress related injuries in defense of our Nation. Mr. Melia, a wounded warrior, thanked all of the sponsors and those who have donated to help the Warriors with the proceeds going to assist many service men and women from the battlefield to bedside and beyond.

Guest Speaker was Police Commissioner, NYPD, Raymond W. Kelly. Commissioner Kelly is a Vietnam Veteran and retired after 30 of service with the Marines. He spoke with gratitude and admiration for our young warriors and their ongoing dedication to our Country. Awards were given to Johnny Damon of the New York Yankees, who is part of a military family, for his dedication to veterans and his work as WWP’s National Spokesman.

The Tony Snow Award was presented to Michael J. Ward, CEO, of CSX Transportation. A board member of WWP, Mr. Ward donated generously to WWP and was instrumental in funding TRACK, an organization that offers education courses to assist warriors’ transition from their injuries to a successful civilian life.

Finally — The George Laney Award for Courage was awarded to John Fernandes, a former employee of WWP who was key in our first partnership discussions with WWP, over a year ago. Captain Fernandes, who was seriously wounded losing both of his legs in Iraq, spoke of his life after combat and the strength of his wife and family that brought him through his ordeal. He reminded us that this kind of support and love is so very special and important in transitioning to civilian life. It was an honor working with John, and we wish him and his family the very best.

Capping the night, were a number of videos of wounded warriors, their injuries and rehabilitation, their love of our Country and their pride to have served.

Scott Higgins with Advisory Board Member Donna DeVarona and fellow sportscaster Bob Costas

WWP Honors Veterans Advantage at the Gala