Cincinnati Hosts Leading Fundraiser Supporting USO-Metro D.C.

Miss America, Premier Military Choir among Entertainment for 2008 USO Riverfest Gala

Each Labor Day, Cincinnati hosts the largest fundraiser supporting the USO of Metropolitan Washington (USO-Metro) hospital services at Walter Reed Medical Center and Bethesda Naval Hospital. Held during the Cincinnati Bell/WEBN fireworks event, which is again this year being dedicated to the nation’s troops, the USO Riverfest Gala delivers a very personal tribute to military personnel by honoring those recently injured in the line of duty.

In just four years, attendees and corporate sponsors have helped raise more than $1 million to support USO-Metro programs.

“Cincinnati and the USO Riverfest Gala are leading the nation in an outpouring of support for our troops,” said Karen Cassidy, co-honorary and executive committee chairperson. “Looking at this year’s event, we are anticipating an outstanding military tribute that will recognize all military personnel and their families.”

USO Riverfest Gala Military Honorees
The 2008 USO Riverfest Gala honorees include:

• SGT Joel Dulashanti, U.S. Army of Cincinnati, Ohio
• MSG Scott Ford, U.S. Army of Athens, Ohio
• TSgt Christopher Frost, U.S. Air Force of Campbell, California
• SPC Jeff Lynch, U.S. Army of Fayetteville, North Carolina
• SPC Brent Hendrix, U.S. Army of Forest City, North Carolina

Over the previous four years, 17 military heroes have been recognized and honored at the USO Riverfest Gala. Each individual’s tremendous story of bravery and courage is shared, and the event guests have the opportunity to show their appreciation.

Previous local honorees include White Oak native Lance Corporal Carl J. Schneider, U.S. Marine Corps; Staff Sergeant John Borders, U.S. Army, of London, Ohio; Grosbeck native Corporal Daniel Hamberg, U.S. Marine Corps; Staff Sergeant Paul Brondhaver, U.S. Army, Ohio National Guard; U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Ryan Groves of Ravenna, Ohio; and U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sergeant Joseph Bowser of Georgetown, Kentucky, who was awarded the Bronze Star Medal at the 2005 Gala.

USO Riverfest Gala Entertainment and Event Details
The 2008 USO Riverfest Gala will feature a familiar face as the emcee when former Cincinnati Bengals offensive lineman Anthony Muñoz returns to lead the “Salute to Military Heroes USO Show.” This year’s entertainment will feature Miss America 2008 Kirsten Haglund, the 82nd Airborne All American Chorus and the American Belles, a singing trio reminiscent of the Andrews Sisters.

The Gala begins at 4 p.m. with a cocktail reception followed by a salute to the military and honoree recognition,musical entertainment, seated dinner and a superb view of the Cincinnati Riverfest fireworks. Valet parking is included with ticket purchase.

Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships benefit the USO of Metropolitan Washington. Contact Kathy Bechtold at 513-684-4870 to purchase tickets ($230/per person). Event, ticket and sponsorship information is also available at all Montgomery Inn restaurants.

The USO is a 501(c)(3) charity and receives no government funds and relies on the generosity of the public.