CLEARWATER, Fla., May 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On Saturday, April 28th, the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization hosted the 2nd Annual Vet 2 Vet Reconnect Military Awards Gala in their historical Fort Harrison located in downtown Clearwater. Two hundred and thirty-five guests showed their support for Vet 2 Vet’s cause and honored the veterans who were awarded that evening with the Life Time Advocate, Life Time Patriot, and the Life Time Impact Awards for their dedication to our country and community.
“Left, Left, Left, Right, Left” said The AVAST (Assisting Veterans of America Support Team) Color Guard leader as the six veterans presented The Colors, at the opening of the event. The Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem followed. “Nothing is more important to these dedicated veterans than giving back to their fellow veterans for all their service,” said MC Joanie Sigal in her opening speech to welcome the guests. Mrs. Sigal called herself an “Army brat” as her father and brother served in the military.
Mr. Keith Collins, Chairman of Vet 2 Vet Reconnect, U.S. Marine Corps Combat Veteran, and organizer of the event, spoke about the volunteer services provided by Vet 2 Vet and that it’s a non-governmental veteran’s assistance center for all veterans. They are “bound together by Glory, Honor, and Commitment,” said Mr. Collins. He also announced that the focus for the evening was how women have supported and served in the military in this “Year of Women.”
“Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard…the veteran who directed this hotel be purchased and renovated so all could come back from their own personal battles is why Vet 2 Vet’s purpose has a definite place in our hearts,” said Church of Scientology’s Community Affairs Director Dylan Pires as he welcomed the guests to the Fort Harrison on behalf of the Church.
Dr. Candice Sabin, co-chair of Vet 2 Vet, told the guests, “This is the ‘Year of Women,’ so we salute those who played a role in safeguarding our country, whether in combat or supporting roles for our Vets after they return home.” Dr. Sabin’s grandfather, father, husband, sons, and grandchild all wore the uniform and she knows how important it is to support those who return from combat.
Recipients of the evening’s award were: Ben Ritter for the Life Time Advocate Award; Bruce Bayes for the Life Time Impact Award; and Andy Marshal, bearer of two Purple Hearts, for the Life Time Patriot Award.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we owe more to these people than we can ever repay. They put their lives on the line to ensure you and I have the freedom that we enjoy,” said Joanie Sigal as she wrapped up the evening with the Melody of Military Service Branch Song.
For more information about holding your own event in the Fort Harrison, please contact Dylan Pires at (727) 467-6860 or email [email protected].
The Fort Harrison Religious Retreat:
Since its construction in 1927, the Fort Harrison in Downtown Clearwater has been the home for many community events and charitable organizations. The Fort Harrison’s current owner, the Church of Scientology, has hosted over 500 community events there since a top-to-bottom restoration in 2009. The Scientology religion was founded by humanitarian and philosopher, L. Ron Hubbard, and incorporated in 1954. To learn more, visit www.scientology.org.
For More Information
Contact:
Pat Harney
727-467-6860
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://resource.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/2c49063e-ffb4-46cd-82dc-00db4947c9e8