The Forgotten Ones

A night dedicated to our military veterans who heeded their country’s call to arms and went to war from Vietnam to the current day war on global terror. In too many instances they came home to a country that didn’t care about their service and a world that didn’t want to hear about their experiences. Their post war stories and struggles were often forgotten or marginalized. It is time to shine a light on their strength, resilience, and grit. Finally, to honor all veterans, prisoners of war, the missing in action, and their families who have sacrificed so much – we see you and we thank you.

The idea for Dogs2DogTags (D2DT) came to Torre Willadsen when he was deployed as a civilian contractor working with military dogs in 2012. During his time with the 7th Marines, he developed close bonds with both dogs and dog handlers. Torre saw firsthand the profound effect a dog could have on a wounded man’s frame of mind during a difficult time. D2DT rescues, trains, and places dogs with deserving service members who have been diagnosed with post-combat stress and anxiety. The purpose is to provide the veteran with a free, trained dog that can help them cope with their unique challenges in everyday life.

Unlike the heroes welcome during World War II, warriors of Vietnam to modern day came home in the shadows. Their post war experiece left many feeling alone and isolated, especially for those who's wounds are not visible. Likewise, approximately 3.3 million dogs are entered into animal shelters each year, with an average of 400,000 of them ending up being euthanized. Since 2023 euthanasia has been on the rise due to shelter over crowding, lower adoption rates, and the long term effects of suspended spay and neuter efforts during the pandemic. This Gala hopes to save two souls at once. It is time for the forgotten to be remembered.

All proceeds from the event go directly to the charitable nonprofit organization D2DT, supporting their mission to rescue both our warriors and man's best friend.

http://dogs2dogtags.org/

The evening will feature live performances, dinner & drinks, and silent auction & raffle items such as a Wicked 20th Anniversary Broadway Cast signed poster (donated by Sponsor Broadway Imagine), autographed pointe shoes from New York City Ballet principal dancers, autographed sports memorabili, and much more!

FUN FACT ~ COME CELEBRATE ON NATIONAL ROSIE THE RIVETER DAY!!!
National Rosie the Riveter Day is celebrated annually onMarch 21st, honoring the millions of American women who entered the workforce during World War II to support the war effort in factories and shipyards, becoming symbols of strength, courage, and female empowerment that paved the way for future generations. The day recognizes their essential role in producing war materials and changing the landscape of the American workforce, a legacy commemorated through events, historical exhibits, and cultural recognition

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Host or Publisher Katarina Gretsky