WOVA celebrates Veteran’s Day with 1st Annual Military Ball

 By Rosanna Durruthy

In honor of Veteran’s Day, the Women of Veteran Affairs (WOVA) celebrated their first Military Ball at the Signature Grand in Davie. The inaugural presentation honoring our military veterans was held in recognition of the contributions of those who served our country.

The evening’s program was gracefully guided by Elaine Steven’s, The Home Lady, who as mistress of ceremonies gave voice to the evening’s festivities. An elegant procession and recounting of the history of the United States Military branches served to introduce the event’s veteran guests.

The distinguished honorees included Bruce “Terry” Brown of the Broward County State Attorney’s Office, Sarai “Ray” Martin, retired Army combat veteran and Lauderhill Commissioner, Carmen McCue, Marine Corps veteran and United Way Outreach Specialist, Dwayne Sheppard, owner and operator of  A Good Shepherd’s Funeral Home and Crematory Services, Cora Striggles Johnson, retired Reading Resource Teacher, Sabrina Sweet, Navy Veteran and Engagement Specialist at the United Way, Ken Thurston, Mayor of Lauderhill, and Karlene Maxwell-Williams, Lauderdale Lakes Commissioner were  recognized for their many contributions to veterans  and their families. Great music by Derrick the DJ and Groove Foundation provided the evening’s live entertainment with music that reached across generations.

For WOVA, this event was an important milestone in realizing the organization’s mission to honor the dignity and quality of life of Veterans and their families. The keynote by U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Mikita Brown, Commander Beale Air Force Base in Sacramento, California, inspired and illuminated the connection to “All gave some, some gave all.” Lt. Col. Brown vividly shared the moments of September 11, 2001, that influenced her decision to join the U.S. Air Force. Her words were humble and wise, and invoked gratitude among the guests in attendance.

In closing remarks, WOVA President, CEO and Military Ball Chair, Linda Hugley and Assistant Chairperson, Iola Glenn, shared WOVA’s commitment to honor veterans and their families by providing access to housing, health care, education and financial services, improving the quality of life for the community. Proceeds from this year’s event will fund scholarships for deserving youth, as well as toys for the upcoming WOVA holiday season toy drive.

If you would like to support WOVA’s mission to honor the dignity and quality of life of veterans and their families, please contact Linda Hugley at coralee1334@hotmail.com. The Women of Veteran Affairs, Inc. is a 501c3 and donations are tax deductible.