"This was the first time my son has been to the beach since sustaining severe injuries in Iraq." He even got in the ocean thanks to a beach wheelchair.  The entire town made this memorable and we are forever grateful."

"Managing XXXX's injuries has been a source of struggle for our family in many ways. This is the first time in several years that I have been able to stop and catch my breath. This week has been more than healing for me, the kids and my husband."

"There are simply not words for how thankful we are for the gift you have extended to our family. Your generosity in opening your home allowed to experience so many priceless moments as a family. We have laughed, prayed, taken naps, and shared so many new memories this week. Thank you, thank you, thank you for allowing us to experience this!"

"...I can’t tell you how much it means to me to have a week without doctors … my Host got me a tricycle which I rode for 2 hours every day... it made me feel so good that I swear it took away my pain … (his wife teared up as she listened to him)”

"Words can’t adequately express the thanks that I feel for all that you have given to us during this week.  To go from feeling cold and alone, to surrounded with love and caring; it has been so wonderful for all of us.  Thank you, thank you – I know that it can’t repay you but I will pass it on, so that the circle can grow."

"Best thing my family and I have experienced! Bethany is 100% a patriotic town who loves anyone who supports our great country."

"The fact that the entire community supported this event was beyond belief. To be welcomed so completely made us feel as if we'd known everyone for years and we were just coming home.”

"(We) wanted to say THANK YOU for an extraordinary week….. I am still on a positive emotional path … from the memories of our week with you…. You allowed Me to empower my thought process with positive memories that I will reach into my memory bank to outweigh the wrinkles (every day negative memories and stress from WAR) in my thought process so I can press forward to a positive outlook on life. I am extremely grateful to each and every team  member, volunteer, business owner and child that was part of the process to absolutely ensure each and every Warrior Family enjoyed one week away from doctors, hospital and rehabilitation!"

"To everyone involved…..from the board members, the hundred of volunteers, the Host families, the businesses that participated……and everyone that supported OSTD.  Thank you for making the impossible possible!!!

A Special Shout Out

• Thank you to all Committee/Event Chairs – your combined efforts resulted in the 4th Warrior Beach Week running smooth resulting in lasting POSITIVE memories for all of the Wounded Veteran families.   Thank you for your generous hours of personal time and creativity for each of these key events!!   GREAT JOB!!!
  • Jim & Maureen Costa - Hosts
  • Marcia Bonifas - Volunteers
  • Gary Carpenter - Boating
  • Mike McGowan - Photography
  • Jordan Katon – Web/Print Design
  • Sandy & Chris Stark – Welcome Reception
  • Patti Eggers – Cookout/Barbeque
  • Sue McCreary – Spa Day
  • Rosely Robinson – A Hero’s Welcome
  • Mary Summerville – Farewell Brunch
  • Joyce Waters – Polar Express
  • Chris Dominic, Wayne Taylor, Joe McHugh – Database
  • Diane and Bill Gay – Welcome Bags and Morning Sun Newsletter
  • Michelle Klinedinst – Horseback Riding
  • Joan Gordon – Business Liaison
• Christine Debruyn has been a strong team player guiding OSTD Merchandise!
• A SPECIAL THANK YOU to Claudia Thayne for four years of creativity, proactive involvement, partnership and never ending energy!  We very much appreciate all of your personal time and dedication!
• THANK YOU Hosts, Homeowners, businesses, bakers, first responders, civic groups, volunteers, all communities, etc. etc.!!  Warrior Families appreciate all you! You have FOREVER created a strong patriotic memory for each of these American Heroes, spouses, children, families!