It was an evening worth remembering! Not only because Operation Warrior Shield hosted a great gala dinner and event but also in the more literal sense. As we approach the festive season, we should remember those who love us and care for us. Military Veterans and First Responders have sacrificed and are sacrificing so much for us so that we can enjoy a life in freedom, happiness and safety. To honor them, Operation Warrior Shield held their Healing for Heroes Event in support of Military Veterans and First Responders at The Water Club in New York City which honored Jean Shafiroff, Philanthropist and author of Successful Philanthropy, The Doris Day Animal Foundation accepted by Jim Pierson and Patricia Deshong of the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation.
Chief Master Sgt. Ed Schloeman, Chairman and CEO of Operation Warrior Shield commented on the aims of the organization, “Our goal is to provide specially trained, loving and supportive canine companions to veterans and first responders and their families who live with physical and emotional injuries incurred during their time in service.” Bethann Carbone, CSO of Operation Warrior Shield explains, “We developed Operation Canine Companion because veterans are committing suicide every day. We know how important healing from trauma is. OWS’ Operation Canine Companion pets provide safety, camaraderie, unconditional acceptance, and a unique emotional support that helps reduce the stress and challenges that our heroes face every day.”
The evening commenced with a cocktail hour and hors d’oeuvres. Guests talked about a variety of issues affecting the life of veterans, shared past memories while enjoying a glass of red wine during a surprisingly warm November night. This part of the event was followed by a silent auction before the start of the program led by the Chairman of Operation Warrior Shield, CMSgt (Retired) Edward Schloeman Sr. Opening the ceremony was the USMC Color Guard from 1st Marine Corps District and an invocation by Monsignor Hilary Franco, who has had the distinction of serving six Popes.
There were presentations on the importance of supporting the work of the charity to help reduce suicide risk amongst veterans by Paul Bucha, Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Deputy Inspector Mark Wachter and Lt. Col. Wilem Wong of NYPD Health & Wellness discussed the challenges faced by first responders. A live auction by Auctioneer Rudy Saviano sought to raise funds to help provide trained dogs to veterans. Operation Warrior Shield then presented awards to the honorees of the 2022 Healing for Heroes. Notable Attendees included; Jean Shafiroff, CMSgt Ret. Ed Schloeman, Pat Deshong, Monsignor Hilary Franco and Medal of Honor Recipient Paul Bucha.
Jeanine Pirro
Michelle DellaFave
Images courtesy of Sean Zanni/ Patrick McMullan via Getty Images
