01 Jul 2023 A patriotic party

Posted at 10:14 AMh in News by

The Operation Red, White & Brave (ORWB) Foundation is celebrating the success of its inaugural gala, which was held June 15 at Herschel Hall in Greenbrier.

Founded in 2020 by First Service Bank, the ORWB Foundation raises money through donations and fundraising events that are matched dollar for dollar by the bank and used to support the needs of veterans. “We’re more than the bank with a big American flag. It’s part of who we are and what we stand for,” said Jon Patrom, vice president of marketing.

The sold-out event sold 220 tickets and raised more than $30,000. As part of the evening, a video presentation was shown that highlighted regional veterans’ programs and specific projects that ORWB has completed.

Chair of the ORWB Foundation Rebecca Grumbles Barnard (from left) with guest speakers Floyd Brantley and Deena Burnett Bailey.

Two guests were the centerpiece of the evening. Floyd Brantley was interviewed by well-known media personality Christina Munos Madsen. Brantley is a 97-year-old World War II and Korean War Veteran. “You never know, until you’re in another country, how great America is,” he said.

The second speaker was Deena Burnett Bailey, widow of Tom Burnett, a passenger on United Airlines flight 93 on Sept. 11, 2001. Tom was one of the passengers who overcame terrorists on the flight, preventing the plane from being flown into a national landmark.

When Bailey finished speaking, the room was completely silent, the audience in awe of her experience. Bailey is a well-known voice for victims’ families of Sept. 11 and wrote a book that led to a major motion film about the tragic day.

“If you know of veterans, military personnel or their families who have a need or if they have a special wish, please send them to us. We would love the opportunity to help them,” said Foundation Board Chairwoman Rebecca Barnard.

ORWB welcomes nominations from veterans or their family members who are in need of aid. Completing a simple online application at firstservicebank.com/orwb. Donations to ORWB can be made at any FSB branch, through orwb.org or by calling Barnard at 501.772.0644. The Foundation also welcomes volunteer help from the community.