Day of Gratitude Event at Allegiant Stadium
(Continued from Home Page)
The presence of distinguished guests added to the event’s significance. Among them were Raiders Owner Mark Davis and Team President Sandra Morgan, whose support was invaluable. Dignitaries also included Nevada Lt. Governor Stavros Anthony, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, Assistant Secretary of the VA Zaneta Adams from the VA in Washington, D.C., His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, former Congresswoman Shelley Berkley, Congresswoman Dina Titus, Congressman Steven Horsford, Adjutant General of the Nevada National Guard Major General Ondra L. Berry, Assistant Adjutant General of the Nevada Army National Guard Brigadier General Troy E. Armstrong, Nevada National Guard Command Chief Master Sergeant Cameron M. Pieters, Nellis Air Force Base Commander of the 57th Wing Brigadier General Richard Goodman, Senior Pastor of ChurchLV Benny Perez, and U.S. Marine Recon Veteran Dan Kamanao (retired after 26 years) who spent 49 months in Vietnam and survived 48 surgeries to this day, are some of the dignitaries that graced the event with their presence and speeches on stage.
The event also featured the presentation of Bronze Star Medals to U.S. Air Force members Capt. Connor Reilly, Sgt. William Leonard, and Sgt. Manuel Terrazas. The Army Combat Award was presented to Sgt. First Class Frank Digiovanni of the Nevada National Guard. These four heroes were recognized for their bravery and sacrifices in combat situations. A rarity for these ceremonies to be seen in a public setting. Peter Palivos also presented these four heroes with an autographed Robert Spillane Raider’s jersey.
Reflecting on the day’s activities brings a flood of heartwarming images: the smiles on the attendees faces, the tears of happiness, and the overwhelming joy, especially from the children as they received their toys and were able to play on the Raiders football field as they interacted with players like Raiders Captain Robert Spillane. The event was a testament to the power of community and the profound impact of collective effort. It underscored the importance of gratitude and support for those who have given so much for our country.
The Day of Gratitude was further enlivened by an impressive lineup of live entertainment. Attendees were treated to the soulful performances of Danny Gokey, renowned for his rise to fame on American Idol, and the energetic tunes of country music artist Walker Hayes. Adding a touch of enchantment to the day, the magical duo of Garry and Janine Carson captivated the audience with their spellbinding acts.
The event also featured heartfelt video messages that played on the jumbotron, amplifying the celebration. The iconic band Journey congratulated all the Veterans, Military members, and their families, sending their best wishes. Mike Rowe, beloved host of “Dirty Jobs,” also shared a special message of love and support, expressing his deep appreciation for our heroes and their families. These messages, along with the live performances, created a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere, making the Day of Gratitude an unforgettable experience.
The Raiders went above and beyond to ensure attendees were well-nourished and energized throughout this historic event. They generously provided free hotdogs or hamburgers, accompanied by chips and drinks. This thoughtful gesture not only satisfied hunger but also added to the overall festive atmosphere, enabling everyone to fully enjoy and participate in the day’s historic activities.
This remarkable event would not have been possible without the extreme efforts of CityServe, ChurchLV, and the amazing volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to making it a success. Their contributions ensured that every detail was meticulously planned and executed, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Major General Ondra Berry stated “I am touched and moved because I have never seen anything like this in my life. I am very grateful to Voice of the Veteran and CityServe for putting on this historic event”.
Brigadier General Richard Goodman stated, “In my 31 years of service, this is the most beautiful and patriotic event I have ever attended”.
A flood of accolades and thanks are pouring in from Veterans who attended the event and those who watched it online from around the world. “This was a family appreciation event that you just don’t see, until now. You could feel the gratitude and love and it was real”. Ben Zvenia, US Army Veteran, Commander of American Legion Post 14.
Ben Harmsen, Army Veteran also stated “For me, it was the best Veteran appreciation event I have ever been to. 100% genuine”.
Voice of the Veteran Chairman Peter Palivos who was the emcee for the on stage presentations summed up the day by saying, “My friends, no Americans have sacrificed more or given more to our country than our brave Service Members and Veterans. So we, through our actions today, honor and show gratitude to these American Heroes!” Palivos continued by stating, “Please remember that we are not here as red Americans. We are not here as blue Americans. We are here as Red, White and Blue Americans”.
As we pause to appreciate the smiles and tears of joy, we are reminded of the enduring spirit of gratitude that binds us together. This Day of Gratitude was more than an event; it was a celebration of unity, service, and the unwavering commitment to honor and support our Veterans, our Military and their families.
Thank you, Peter Palivos and Dave Donaldson, for your vision and dedication, and to everyone who played a part in making this Day of Gratitude a resounding success.
 Partial View of some of the “Day of Gratitude” Crowd |
 L to R: Nevada Lt. Gov. Stavros Anthony, Raiders Owner Mark Davis,Voice of the Veteran Chairman Peter Palivos, CityServe CEO Dave Donaldson |
 Major General Ondra L. Berry, Brigadier General Troy E. Armstrong,Command Chief Master Sergeant Cameron M. Pieters |
 U.S. Air Force Bronze Star HonoreesL to R: Capt. Connor Reilly, Sgt. William Leonard, and Sgt. Manuel Terrazas |
 Dave Donaldson, CEO CityServe and Bob Maxwell CEO andFounder of Voice of the Veteran pictured with Zaneta I. Adams Deputy Assistant Secretary, Intergovernmental Affairs Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington D.C. |
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 Dan Kamanao, Su “The Queen” Phelps, Bob Maxwell
This 2 page spread is in the “Veterans Reporter News” Click on each page to see them in larger size. |
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