Recently this month SOWF was honored to be a recipient of the proceeds from the annual SSG Alex Viola Memorial Car Show in Keller, Texas. Frank and Peggy Viola, the event organizers, are the parents of SSG Alex Viola, who lost his life in 2013 while serving with the U.S. Army Special Forces, 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
The first SSG Alex Viola Memorial Car Show was held on Veterans Day, 2015 and the show has since become an annual Veterans Day tradition, attended by thousands of loyal enthusiasts and featuring cars from all over the United States.
This year there were many exciting elements. Nearly 400 vehicles were entered and the Rotary Club of Keller placed 1776 symbolic flags on display. The national anthem was performed by SSG Alex Viola’s cousin, Emily McGinley, while F16’s flew over the crowd. In addition, a live auction took place featuring a handmade wooden display of SSG Alex Viola’s military career.
This was a truly beautiful gathering where the community came together. SOWF is honored to be one of the beneficiaries, and again we would like to thank the Viola family, the Green Berets who participated this year as judges, volunteers and staff who worked tirelessly to make this all happen.
