The National World War II Museum’s U.S. Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center was a glow as it usually is at night — but on the eve of Veterans Day, the to and fro of people, and the hustle and bustle inside indicated something was afoot. The activity was for the New Orleans Mission “Honoring Our Heroes” gala. This event was held to raise money to help the city’s homeless, particularly it’s homeless veterans.
The gala started with Edna Karr High School ROTC students presenting the colors, followed by the National Anthem performed by Terry Gillis, a former U.S. Marine. Gillis was the subject of a video played at the gala illustrating his plight after returning home after four years of service, then facing nine months of homelessness under the Claiborne Bridge. He finally made his way to the Mission, which was implemental in turning around his life.
Angela Hill was the night’s emcee, moving the program along, which also included speeches by Mission director David Bottner and Chip Gardner, who came in place of Mayor Mitch Landrieu. Mark Romig did live auctioning duties with the offerings as a Drew Brees/Blue Dog silk screen by George Rodrigue; a Rolling Stones photo-montage with laser autographs; Thomas Cole prints in matching frames; and four weeks of outdoor digital advertising with Lamar Outdoor Advertising.
The Victory Belles musically guided the gala. Attendees included Millie Baudier, Emily Bottner, Jennifer Gardner, Kirsten and Benjamin Watson, Sharon and Glenn Gardner, Luke and Katie Mckown, Tracy and Troy Duhon, Debbie and Doug Collins, Earl and Bondi and Earl Heard, Paul Klein, Diane Chesson, Frank Colangelo, Dr. Bennie Nobles, Ann Peterson, Kathy Ritter, Linda Martin, Margaret Hughes, Norris Songe, Mildred Walker, and Crystal Gardner-Phillips and Chad Phillips.
The New Orleans Mission provides food, shelter, clothing and spiritual guidance to the city’s homeless. It is the largest homeless shelter in the state, and has served over 2,500 homeless, men, women and children. Homeless veterans are a growing sector of this population.
