This year, I had the distinct honor of representing TriYoung, Inc. at the Patriots Ball, an event that left a profound impact on me personally and professionally. As a proud Eagle Sponsor of this event, hosted by the Southwest Veteran Foundation, TriYoung, Inc. was given a table, which we were thrilled to dedicate almost entirely to our veteran friends. My husband and I were the only non-veteran attendees at the table, and we felt incredibly privileged to share this evening with so many who have given so much.
The Patriots Ball theme for 2024 is a tribute to disabled and paralyzed veterans, celebrating their strength, resilience, and unyielding spirit. As I entered the ballroom, the energy was palpable, and I knew this night would be special. What I did not anticipate was how deeply emotional it would be.
Throughout the evening, awards were given to honor veterans and those who have made a significant impact on the veteran community. These included the Veteran Business Awards, the Lincoln Award, the Mark Ashby Memorial Service Award, and the Mike Miller Veteran Community Engagement Award. Each award came with its own powerful story.
The Mark Ashby Memorial Service Award is especially moving as it’s presented to a non-veteran who has provided extraordinary support to veterans and their families. It was established in memory of Mark Ashby, a former Southwest Veterans Chamber of Commerce chapter president. Seeing his family there to present the award in his honor was a beautiful moment.
The Mike Miller Veteran Community Engagement Award, created last year, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Mike Miller, who was selected as the first recipient in 2023, sadly passed away after his selection but before the Patriots Ball last year. This year, the award was renamed in his memory, and his daughter was present to continue his legacy by presenting the award. It was a poignant reminder of the lasting impact one person can make.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and the ball also took time to highlight the critical issue of veteran suicide. It was heart-wrenching to hear the statistics—Arizona has the 6th highest veteran suicide rate in the U.S.—and even more so to hear the personal stories of families who have been affected. One mother shared the painful story of her son who could no longer bear the physical and emotional scars of war. It was a stark reminder of the battles veterans face, not just on the battlefield but long after they return home.
Witnessing the physical and emotional toll these veterans and their families endure was overwhelming, but at the same time, the evening was filled with love and hope. The strength of the veteran community is remarkable, and the support they provide for each other is inspiring.
As a representative of TriYoung, Inc., I left the Patriots Ball with a renewed sense of purpose. Our sponsorship of the event, while meaningful, felt small in comparison to the courage and resilience displayed by these veterans and their families. It is an honor to stand alongside organizations like the Southwest Veteran Foundation, who are doing vital work in supporting veterans and raising awareness about issues like veteran suicide.
The Patriots Ball was more than just an event—it was a powerful tribute to those who have served our country and a reminder of the ongoing support they need. I look forward to continuing our partnership with the Southwest Veteran Foundation and supporting our veterans in every way we can.
