By Jeremy P. Amick
Wrestling organization WWE has an extensive history of sponsoring patriotic endeavors which pay respect to the nation’s veterans—activities which have recently earned the organization a venerated honor from a group dedicated to the support of combat wounded veterans and their families.
In recognition of their support of the military community, WWE was presented with the 2015 Silver Star Families of America (SSFOA) Commendation Award in a recent ceremony held backstage as part of WWE Live event in St. Louis, Mo.
A non-profit based out of Clever, Mo., the SSFOA’s primary mission is to recognize and support veterans who are wounded, injured, or have acquired an illness related to their service in a combat zone—regardless of service branch or military conflict.
The commendation can be awarded to military or civilian personnel, departments or organizations who have positively affected the lives of wounded and ill veterans.
Previous commendation recipients include President George W. Bush, Gen. David Petraeus, Ann-Margret, Gary Sinise and rock legends Mötley Crüe.
This year, WWE was selected for their “unwavering support of the military through their Tribute to the Troops, WWE’s annual television special that salute’s America’s armed forces; entertaining troops overseas in locations such as Iraq and Afghanistan; visits by WWE Superstars and Divas to military hospitals and installations; and, donations and fundraising support to organizations that provide direct support to the nation’s veterans,” the award citation noted.
Steven Newton, founder and CEO of the SSFOA said, “WWE has a long history of being an organization that understands and appreciates the sacrifices made by members of our nation’s armed forces in protecting this great nation.”
He added, “We appreciate the selfless enthusiasm demonstrated by organizations such as WWE in leveraging their resources to support causes benefiting these great warriors.”
As part of the presentation, SSFOA respresentatives presented WWE with a plaque, Silver Star Families service flags and challenge coins.
Acknowledging the honor of receiving such an award, Xavier Woods, WWE Superstar and member of the wrestling team New Day, recalled his participation in a recent WWE visit to troops stationed at Ft. Benning, Ga., adding, “This is certainly an honor, but continue to appreciate (the veterans) for all they have done for us … and continue to do.”
Jeremy P. Amick writes on behalf of the Silver Star Families of America.