CFEF Salute to Our Heroes Gala Punctuated by Shilo Harris
The Cy-Fair Educational Foundation honored our military and first responders at our 15th annual Salute to Our Heroes Gala on October 21 at the Hyatt Regency Houston West. The gala is one of five fundraising events the Foundation hosts each year to raise money for scholarships for graduating students from Cypress-Fairbanks ISD.
HCA Houston Healthcare - North Cypress has been underwriting this event since 2018, along with other long time supporters of this event to celebrate the men and women who serve to protect our freedoms and liberty.
The evening began with Presentation of Colors, the National Anthem. The event also included the Missing Man Ceremony and TAPS to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. Cypress Creek AFJROTC, and Houston Brass Quintet performed these honors.
Guest speaker U.S. Army (Ret) SSG Shilo Harris punctuated the evening. A Purple Heart recipient, Harris shared his journey from suffering life-changing injuries, including losing is ears, part of his nose, some fingers and over a third of the skin on his body in an IED (Improvised Explosive Devices) explosion, to finding a way to continue fulfilling his desire to serve and protect the American people. Harris promotes post-traumatic growth in civilians, veterans, and active-duty troops across the country through his inspirational talks and memoir “Steel Will: My Journey Through Hell to Become the Man I was Meant to Be.” His has been a journey of faith, determination, and love of life.
Salute to Our Heroes has awarded the 1st Lieutenant Jeremy Ray Community Service and Peace Award for the past 14 years. The award is given to a community member, organization or company which best personifies community service, service to our armed forces and/or promotes peace.
The Cy-Fair Educational Foundation was proud to award this year’s recipient, Dr. Mark Henry. Dr. Henry has dedicated his career to making life better for students, staff, and the Cy-Fair community.
Teresa Hull (Left) Justin Ray (center) and Dr. Mark Henry (right) with the 1st Lieutenant Jeremy Ray Community Service and Peace Award.Source: CFEF (Photo Credits: David Postma, Genesis Photography)
