"I
just wanted to honor our fallen heroes who gave their lives for our freedom. They deserve it," said Sanchez.
The ceremony had more than 1,000 people in attendance. Among those were people from Channel 13 Fox
News, Sherriff Grady Judd, and numerous dignitaries.
"I am so thankful for the community
support. This event would not have been possible without the community support we received throughout the entire planning
process," Sanchez said.
The Tampa chapter of the U.S. Military Motorcycle
Club kicked off the event by setting up the POW/MIA table. Seth Rollins, an "American Idol" finalist,
proudly sang the national anthem.
A speech was delivered by Sanchez, and was
a touching reminder of why we should continue to support our troops, not only on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, but every
day.
"We need to remember that there are, unfortunately, many heroes who
never made it home, and there are thousands of them still living, and wounded, who need our support," she said.
SunTrust bank presented two $100 savings bonds to third- and fourth-graders from Lincoln
Avenue Academy after they read their speeches on "What a Hero Means to Me."
The
keynote speaker was Staff Sgt. Jerry Majetich, who was severely wounded in Iraq. In February 2005, Majetich
was mobilized with the 304th Psychological Operations Company to Iraq, in support of the 3rd Infantry Division. In October
2005 he was wounded during his tour and is a recipient of numerous Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart and many more prestigious
awards.
"He has been through more trials and tribulations than any one man
should have to bear. We are thankful and absolutely honored to have him with us today," said Sanchez.
More information can be read about him at www.intellectualconservative.com/2008/03/30/jerry-majetich-the-story-of-a-severely-injured-iraq-war-veteran/
Majetich and Sanchez were awarded the key to the city from Commissioner Don
Selvage on behalf of Mayor Gow Fields.
A musical performance
of "If You're Reading This" by Tim McGraw was performed by Sgt. Scott Dasher of
the 3rd Special Forces Company.
A dove release took place at the beginning of
the walk. There were 430 shirts given out that day, all with the name of a fallen hero on the back. "As you walk around
the lake, walk with pride, with your head held high, for there is a hero walking with you."
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