Ann and Ted Nettles, leaders of the Maryland Patriot Guard (MDPG), invited Janice Chance Gold Star Mothers Maryland Chapter to volunteer at the USO Walter Reed Annual Holiday Party since she is an approved frequent volunteer with their team: Carl, Bill, Carol, Greg, and Kathleen Weaver, President VFW Post 10076. The party was for active-duty service members, wounded warriors, their families and other special guests. The event was organized by Ms. Linda Rasnake, Family Readiness Support Assistant with the support of. Ms. Sarah Johnson, USO Manager, Ms. Brittany Freshwater, USO MD Regional Director, USO staff and volunteers. Volunteers assisted with a variety of tasks. Food was provided by the Out Back Steakhouse Restaurant. Their employees cooked and served the food. Cindy McGrew, Founder & CEO of Operation Second Chance (OSC) and members of her team set up one of the dessert stations. Other local community businesses also set up a variety of stations with gifts, resources and toys for our heroes and their families. Super Hero cartoon characters were also in attendance. The theme this year was “Winter Wonderland”. Santa made his usual grand entrance on a fire truck led by two MDPG riders. It was a Blessing to see the smiles on the faces of the children and adults, to hear laughter, and to serve our Heroes and their families. Per Ms. Johnson there were approximately 450 military service and family members in attendance. The honored guest expressed their appreciation throughout the event.
