Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Foundation “Gallantly Forward Gala’
The Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Foundation (SCLDF) announces their annual ‘Gallantly Forward Gala’ in support of Veterans. The event will be held on Saturday, 21 October 2017 at The Rushmore Plaza Civic Center – LaCroix Hall, Rapid City, SD. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and event ceremonies kick-off at 5:45 p.m. Tickets are $35 and must be purchased in advance. Business evening attire is recommended, but not required.
The gala fundraiser will feature social hour, dinner, guest speakers, silent/live auction, and live music. The event features two main speakers: former Staff Sergeant Samuel McCue, United States Marine Corps and Master Sergeant Amanda McDowell, United States Air Force. The Master of Ceremonies (MC) will be Dr. Julie Ertz and opening ceremonies are provided by musical act The Starfellows.
If unable to attend the event, the SCLDF asks that you consider either sponsoring a veteran in your stead or donating an item for the silent/live auction. All donations are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.
Founded in 2012, SCLDF is steadfast in its three-fold mission of support: provide advocacy, assistance, and public awareness for struggles veterans face when they return from deployments. Present day soldiers often face more than one deployment throughout their military careers. While on these deployments, soldiers have an overall mission. They feel united and develop a sense of duty and camaraderie. However, coming home does not always mean peace, but often reveals confusion, turmoil, anger, depression, and isolation. An estimated 20+ veterans and 1 active duty soldier succumb to suicide every day.
Sergeant Colton Levi Derr suffered with PTSD following his combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. In support of American’s War on Terror during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring freedom, SGT Derr, U.S. Army 1st Calvary Division completed over 500 combat missions. Sergeant Colton Levi Derr succumbed to suicide on 28 APR 12 following his Afghanistan mission. The SCLDF honors Colton by assisting his fellow veterans and their families and respectfully asks the public to become involved in this battle.
For more information about the gala contact Jerry W. Derr at (605) 545-2505 / email jerry@sergeantderrfoundation.org or visit www.sergeantderrfoundation.org.
