photo by Ashworth Photography
Friday evening the Honoring the Sacrifice Foundation hosted its 9th annual American Heroes Dinner at the Chattanooga Convention Center with keynote speaker General John F. Kelly, USMC (Ret). According to foundation representative Catherine Smith, “General Kelly reminded the audience that the threat of terrorism around the globe still exists, and that it will take the bravery and dedication of young men and women to defend liberty and freedom. He also stated that one percent of our citizens bear the burden of this task.”
Also participating in the program was Sr. Master Sergeant Israel Del Toro, Jr. USAF (Ret.). Del Toro was severely wounded in Afghanistan in 2005 when his Humvee rolled over a buried landmine and exploded. While doctors gave him a 15 percent chance of survival, Del Toro woke from a four-month coma determined to survive. Retired in 2019, he is sharing his story in his newly released book, A Patriots Promise, Protecting My Brothers, Fighting for My Life, and Keeping My Word.
Honoring the Sacrifice Foundation formed in 2013 when Sgt Andrew T. Smith, US Army (Ret.) and his wife Tori returned from two years at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The outpouring of support from the Chattanooga community provided the impetus for the Smith family to assist others impacted by their own wounds of war.
The event celebrated American heroes, many in attendance whose life-altering injuries the all-volunteer foundation is committed to assisting. To learn more about Honoring the Sacrifice Foundation or to get involved, go to https://www.honoringthesacrifice.com/.
photo by Ashworth Photography