News & Events

Soldiers from Ft. Drum, New York Honored in the Queen City

Soldiers treated to the best of Cincinnati

CINCINNATI -Saturday June 9th 2007 - The Thank You Foundation along with the help from several local businesses and individual contributions, sent more than 30 soldiers from Ft. Drum, New York to the Cincinnati Reds - Cleveland Indians baseball game at Great American Ballpark on Saturday. The soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division, 2nd of the 87th Infantry Battalion, Company A, 3rd Platoon, led by Captain Ryan Case and Sergeant First Class Francisco Morales, recently returned home from a tour of duty in Afghanistan. On Friday, the soldiers attended a memorial service for Sgt. Jeremy Greene of Springfield, Ohio, who unfortunately lost his life during action in Afghanistan last month.

Upon learning that the soldiers were going to be in the area, Beverly Peyton, President of the Blue Star Mothers Miami Valley Chapter, along with Chaplain Robin Barnes, contacted John Guinn, Founder and President of The Thank You Foundation, in hopes of doing something special for the troops.

"In less than two weeks, we were able to put together a day for these soldiers that hopefully expresses our gratitude for their service to our country."

The American Legion Post 256 in Loveland, hosted the soldiers and their families prior to the game where they enjoyed free beverages provided by the American Legion Post 256, and food from Paxton's Grill, and La Rosa's Pizza, which was purchased by Haverstick Government Solutions, Inc.

The Patriot Guard was there to welcome the troops and their families along with members of the American Legion Post 256, and several volunteers from the community.

Bob Woods, State Captain of the Patriot Guard, was on hand as well to celebrate the home away from homecoming for the soldiers of the 3rd Platoon.

Guinn stated, "It was very moving and emotional when the troops arrived. The Patriot Guard was lined up on either side with American flags to welcome the soldiers and their families, and then after breaking formation, the troops shook hands and greeted the Patriot Guard and it was very touching to see one generation have so much in common with another and know exactly what these men and women go through."

Guinn added, "And when the guys left for the game, the Patriot Guard escorted them to the stadium. It was very emotional and wonderful to witness. The Patriot Guard is a wonderful organization and they do so much wherever they are needed and wherever they go."

Guinn went on to say, "There were a number of organizations and people that made this day of recognition possible, and we greatly appreciate all of their efforts. While their weekend started with a memorial to a lost soldier, we hope it will end with the soldiers from Ft. Drum having some fun while at the same time understanding how much we appreciate their sacrifices."

Although the day was intended for the soldiers from Ft. Drum, there were a few unexpected events that took place. The Thank You Foundation presented Robin Barnes, Chaplain of the Blue Star Mothers Miami Valley Chapter, a "Certificate of Appreciation" for her service and dedication to our country. In addition, the troops from Ft. Drum presented a plaque to John Guinn, expressing their appreciation for the work that is done by The Thank You Foundation.

"I am so very proud of these young men and proud of how the community of Cincinnati came together to honor them."

Bob Myers, the owner of the Sawyer Point building located on Pete Rose Way and Eggleston Ave. in downtown Cincinnati, donated free game day parking for the group.

"It was a very successful day and with the help of so many, I believe we were able to carry out our Mission of Appreciation and truly thank these brave men for their service to our great country."

Other contributors to the event include:

Top Shelf Deli, Sharonville
Colonel Steve Marks - U.S. Army Reserve
Joe Walters - Haverstick Consulting
Sam and Nancy Arnold - Military Support Group
Marcia Iker - Yellow Ribbon Support Group, Forest Park
Lawrence and Susan Kight
Mary Ann Begay

The Thank You Foundation's "Tickets for Troops" program provides complimentary tickets to professional sporting events, concerts, amusement parks, movies, and various cultural events to service members and veterans who have sacrificed their lives and time to defend this nation.

If you would like to support The Thank You Foundation and their "Tickets for Troops" program, or would like to volunteer for an event, please call John Guinn toll free at 877-280-8893.

Contributing Writers:
James Guinn
Kevin Wilson