Proud to be a member of the America Supports
You Team
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 26, 2005
Contact: Lisa Frederick, USO-Metro
(703) 696-3278
Lisa.Frederick@fmmc.army.mil
Organizers Welcome Crowd of over 700 at 2nd Annual USO Riverfest Fireworks Gala
Cincinnati, OH- One of the USO of Metropolitan Washington’s largest fundraisers drew a crowd of more than 700 supporters and honored American heroes on September 4, 2005. For the second year in a row, corporate leaders, philanthropists, and members of the U.S. Armed Forces gathered at the Montgomery Inn at the Boathouse in Cincinnati, Ohio to enjoy an evening of great food, spectacular entertainment, and incredible fireworks. This year’s USO Riverfest Fireworks Gala was presented by UBS Financial Services Inc., HSR Business to Business Inc., and the Gregory family, who own The Montgomery Inn.
Proceeds from this annual event will benefit a number of USO-Metro programs and services, including hospital services for recuperating soldiers, food assistance, emergency housing, family support centers, distribution of care packages and travel arrangements for family members visiting loved ones while attending Arlington National Cemetery services.
The 2nd Annual Riverfest Fireworks Gala honored injured veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan. Among those honored were U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Daniel Hamberg of Cincinnati, Ohio National Guard Staff Sgt. Paul Brondhaver of Cincinnati, U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Ryan Groves of Ohio and Petty Officer Joseph Worley from the Fleet Marine Force, a native of Georgia.
U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sergeant Joe Bowser of Georgetown, Kentucky officially received a Bronze Star medal at the event. The Bronze Star was presented by Deputy Director of Regional Operations for J-3, and Ohio native, Brigadier General Carter Ham of the United States Army. SSG Bowser was injured during an April 2004 attack on his unit in Iraq, after which he lost part of his right leg. He, along with four others wounded on the front lines in the war on terror, were honored as heroes at the 2005 USO Riverfest Fireworks Gala.
The now annual event, featuring several national entertainers, was created as a way to honor key military service personnel who valiantly served their country and were wounded during their respective tours of duty. In 2004 a small group of Cincinnatians envisioned an annual event that would raise funds for USO programs, both locally and those that support troops as they deploy overseas, return home or recuperate in military hospitals. With generous local sponsor support, this group quietly created the first event, which was attended by more than 650 people and raised more than $110,000 for USO programs serving Metropolitan Washington and Central Ohio.
"The USO Riverfest Fireworks Gala has become one of the largest locally-created fundraising events in our history," said Elaine Rogers, President of USO-Metro. "We are thrilled to team up with UBS, the Gregory family and HSR for this spectacular event again this year,"
Dean Gregory, owner of the Montgomery Inn, stated, "My family and staff are so happy and proud to be able to host this event for an organization as beneficial as the USO." The restaurant maintains a room devoted entirely to Bob Hope, their most famous supporter and a committed USO volunteer. Pictures of the legendary entertainer grace every wall of the room, including photos of Hope visiting with the Gregory family and performing for weary troops at USO shows.
"Hearing first hand from military personnel and their families how the USO has positively impacted their lives was all we needed to hear to lend our support," said Steve Lee, senior vice president, UBS Financial Services, Inc. "The USO Riverfest Fireworks Gala is a great way to honor our troops and demonstrate our support and appreciation for the sacrifices they and their families have made for the freedoms we enjoy."
NFL legend Anthony Munoz served as a key presenter for the evening. Entertainers on hand included "America’s Tenor" Daniel Rodriguez, Miss America 2005 Deidre Downs, country music singer Hank Brake and The Liberty Belles singing trio. Additional information can be found at www.usoriverfest.com.
