On August 17, “Famously Hot” Columbia, SC was again a partner in a national military tribute, the Crossing of America Tour.
The Crossing of America caravan, in route from Charleston, stopped first at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center to honor veterans, current service personnel and family members for their courageous sacrifices for the freedom of America.
Speakers at the event included:
Mayor Steve Benjamin, City of Columbia
Ike McLeese, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army
Colonel Ramona Fiorey, Moncrief Army Community Hospital Commander
William Campbell, Veterans of Foreign Wars State Commander
Jason Figueroa, Crossing of America team spokesperson & Marine Veteran
From the convention center, the caravan made several stops throughout the city, including City Hall, the Veterans Memorial Park and Galeana Chrysler Jeep Kia before departing for Charlotte, NC.
The tour began May 27, 2011, just prior to Memorial Day weekend and will end just before September 11, in time for the historical ten year tribute to the massacre of 9-11. Upon completion of the project, the Crossing of America tour will have traveled more than 12,700 miles through 43 states and the District of Columbia during its 105-day trip. The purpose of the road trip is to raise awareness of United States military and raise funds for Wounded Warriors Project, their families and the Families of Fallen Heroes.
Contributed by Courtney Herring
