Save Our Servicemembers event June 17
An event, which will feature live music, food and raffles, will be held next month to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.
Jim Normandin said the event started out as a private party for his son, who is on leave from the Navy. Plans changed, so they decided to do something for the military instead because he is a veteran and his daughter is in the Navy Reserve.
The Wounded Warrior project became of interest to Normandin, which sparked the idea of holding an event to benefit the non-profit organization after it was well received by area residents.
The organization, which began to help the first wounded service members returning from Afghanistan and Iraq, has blossomed into assisting former soldiers who are transitioning back into the civilian life.
“The Wounded Warrior Project is only for the wounded veterans from 9/11 until now and continuing on from now,” he said.
All of the proceeds from the event, S.O.S. (Save Our Servicemembers), will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project, which will remain local.
The event, which will feature several bands throughout the day, will be held on Father’s Day, June 17. S.O.S. will be held at the Olde Fish House Marina in Matlacha.
“We are really hoping for a good turnout,” he said.
Music from bagpipes will fill the air as patriotic songs are played. A young lady will also sing the National Anthem at the beginning of the event, which will kick off around 2 p.m.
A new band will also take the stage once an hour until about 8 p.m., which will include Gary and Kerri.
Normandin said all the bands are volunteering their time for the event.
Nine flags will also be present during S.O.S. to honor all the armed forces, which includes the American flag.
Smoked ribs, chicken and fresh seafood from the kitchen will be available during the event. Normandin said they will have 50/50 raffles and depending on the donations they may have a silent and raffle auction as well.
He said they are still looking for donations for the event. Individuals can either drop them off at the Olde Fish House or can call Normandin at 239-440-7689 and he will find a way to pick it up.
Tents are also being sought for the event in case it rains to provide shelter for those who attend, along with the bands who are performing.
T-shirts are now available at the Olde Fish House that has their slogan “Save our Servicemembers” on the front and “We have what we have cause they gave what they gave” on the back of the shirt. The patriotic T-shirt was made in honor of the event.