We had a special experience today as Mark was asked to attend the Veterans Day ceremony in downtown Tampa, which was put on by the Chamber of Commerce. He was dressed in uniform for the first time in a year, which was quite poignant. Many of the nurses were a bit teary when they saw him and Jess and I were especially proud.
We went downtown with the Army liasions and Mark was seated in the front row and acknowledged. He was interviewed by several of the local television crews. His sergeant major naturally was quite pleased with her "poster boy for Army Strong". He was also greeted by his two favorite generals, Gen. Michael Diamond, Commander of the C.A.R.E. Coalition and Brig. Gen. Arne Skjaerpe, Norway, who is the Commander of the Coalition Forces at U.S. Central Command, who we now consider a friend.
The keynote speech was given by Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio. She gave an extremely moving and eloquent address.
It was a very fitting ceremony to attend on the eve of the first anniversary of the accident and our thoughts and prayers today and tomorrow are with the others who have been so affected by this tragedy.
8 comments:
It is great to see Mark's amazing progress!!
Well done to you ,Mark.
You know our thoughts are with you always but especially just now.
Your journey has been amazing and may it continue.
Enjoy this weekend of "celebrations".
Big hugs to everyone xxx
Mark, I just have to congratulate you on all of your hard work, determination, and strength that you have put in over the past year. Sgt. Major is absolutely right...you are the "poster boy for ARMY strong"...and I couldn't be more proud to have been your Recreation Therapist over the past year...(even if you did throw Checkers game pieces at me or swear to me during a game of UNO!) Just joking, but seriously, You have done so well and continue to progress! Congrats again!
Hey Mark....Still looking really handsome in that uniform! I would love to have alittle of that weather about now! It is 35 and cold here. Enjoy the great outdoors as much as possible. I will be watching to see when you make the move to the apartment. Best wishes and congrats on the Veteran's Day program. I am always glad to see the photos and that smile!
Hi Mark,
It's David Cola, Mike's little brother. I just want you to know that i am doing a veterans report for school on you. I think it's cool how your not giving up no matter what has happened to you and its a give example to people to never give up. Hope to see you sometime soon!
-David Cola
Happy Birthday to both Mark and Jess. This is a much better year.
Mark, please show Jess how to set up her phone so she can get messages. She really need help on technical things like I do.
Uncle Al
Mark,
Thinking of you on Veteran's Day and the one year anniversary of your accident. What an amazing year. You could write a book!! We are thanking God for your protection, for your progress and for your persistence. Congrats on all you've accomplished!
Habakkuk 3:19
The Sovereign Lord is my strength, He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go on the heights.
God bless you,
Kathy and Bill
Mark,
On this Veterans Day, we are proud to know you and witness your progress. Keep it up. I also see a post from Carrie and I would like to acknowledge her, and all of the staff members at the VA, for their great dedication and efforts to others. We are ALL very appreciative.
The Sullivan Family
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