SAV

2023 Recap

The Rotary Club of Dallas, the 1st in Texas and 39th International, proudly presented its 19th Annual Salute to America’s Veterans on November 8th at the Frontiers of Flight Museum.

This heartfelt celebration marked Veterans Day, originally Armistice Day, observed since November 11, 1919, now commemorating 104 years. Additionally, we honored the 248th anniversary of the Marine Corps, a symbol of valor created in 1775 by the Continental Congress.

The 19th Annual Salute to America’s Veterans commenced with a stirring Patriotic welcome by Hubert Zajicek, President 2023-2024 of the Rotary Club of Dallas and co-founder and CEO of Health Wildcatters.

Our esteemed Keynote Speaker, Dr. J.D. Crouch II, the 23rd Chief Executive Officer and President of the United Service Organizations (USO), shared his insights, embodying the spirit of service and dedication.  Chris Cassidy, Capt., USN (Ret.) CEO of the Medal of Honor Museum had the privilege of introducing Dr. Crouch.

A momentous occasion, this year saw the first presence of Mark Davis, an iconic radio talk show host, as our Master of Ceremonies. With over 40 years in the field, Mark's Texan roots resonated in his hosting of the Mark Davis Show on 660 AM, The Answer.

Despite post-COVID-19 challenges, the event drew a remarkable 400 attendees, including 205 Veterans from the Happy Warriors, the Green Beret Army Special Forces, and the 1st Cavalry Division Honor Guard, Fort Hood, TX.

Special recognition was accorded to Vietnam War POWs, notably Colonel Kenneth W. Cordier, USAF 1960 – 1985 (Ret.) and POW 1965-1974. The presence of two World War II Veterans, Lt. Col. Linus Wright, U.S. Army (Ret.) and Rotarian, and Major John “Lucky” Luckadoo, U.S. Air Force (Ret.), added an unparalleled sense of honor.

In support of our future military leaders, NJROTC Cadets from the Faith Family Academy and members of the Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas played a vital role in welcoming and escorting veterans and guests.

The enchanting performance by the American Bombshells, a modern-day rendition of the Andrews Sisters, further heightened the patriotic atmosphere. Their renditions of Military Service Hymns and other patriotic songs, including the National Anthem (a cappella) and closing with the Stars and Stripes, left a lasting impression.

Our sincere gratitude extends to all corporate sponsors (see list of sponsors) for their unwavering support. Funds raised from the Salute to America’s Veterans event will go towards supporting the USO and the George W. Bush Institute Veterans and Military Families.

CSM Norman Kaucher, USA (Ret.), USO Volunteer, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Michelle Grose, Senior Development Officer, Corporate and Foundation Relations, delivered a heartfelt Invocation.

In unity and gratitude, we salute our veterans and express our deep appreciation for their service to our great nation.