At Houston’s 2nd annual Evening of Tribute held February 6th, we paid honor to our Nation’s most elite warriors and delivered support to the entire Naval Special Warfare (NSW) community, in partnership with the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF) that serves and backs them by meeting so many of their needs and those of their families.
“I was again honored and humbled to help host this event, as we try to expand the Foundation’s reach in Texas,” said Shea Morenz of Morenz Group, one of the event’s hosts. “To me, the Foundation represents an extension of the SEALs’ excellence. It has maintained a 4 Star Charity Rating since 2011 and 94% of every $1 donated goes directly to the supporting programs. I want to express my deep gratitude to those who attended and/or donated to the effort.”
Morenz joined Gary Peterson, John Rutherford, and Will Hodge (a former SEAL) in hosting the event, held at the River Oaks Country Club in Houston. More than $1.2 million was raised … and counting.
The evening was kicked off with a heartfelt video by long-time NSF supporter and Houston’s own JJ Watt. Former Navy SEALS and twins Marcus and Morgan Lutrell gave a moving toast honoring the fallen and touching on what it means to be a SEAL and how each life lost is a direct reflection of the selfless sacrifice these men make every day. Our evening concluded with Retired Vice Admiral Robert S. Harward’s meaningful reflections on his personal experiences leading these quiet warriors. He addressed the unique stresses borne by the entire community over the last 19 years of continual battle since the September 11th attacks on our Natuon.
VADM Sean Pybus, Chairman of NSF and USN (Ret.), offered guests and donors these words, “Navy SEALS and other members of the Naval Special Warfare (NSW) community do their work in the shadows, bearing the unique stresses of years of continual combat … by being here tonight, you are showing these brave warriors [and their families] that they are not alone. You’re telling them that as they stand on the front lines, you stand behind them, ready and willing to give them and their families the help, the support, and the care they need and deserve, through your partnership with the Navy SEAL Foundation.”
Says Morenz, “It was a deeply moving night that made all of us think about the sacrifices Navy SEALs make to help keep our nation safe. I was reminded of Paul’s words to the Romans, written more than two thousand years ago and ever present as we honor the selflessness of these patriots:”
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, to present your bodies as living and holy sacrifice, which is your spiritual service of Worship. And do not be conformed to this world… Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; devoted to prayer.”
