GOOD EVENING, and welcome to the 2021 Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF) New York City Benefit.
A close friend of mine, who is a retired SEAL, introduced me to this organization in 2010 when I attended this event for the first time. I was blown away by power of the evening, listening to the heroic deeds that these men perform, without recognition. I was equally moved, listening to the incredible sacrifices their families endure. I haven’t missed one of these nights since.
2021 marks 20 years since the attack on our Nation. I was born and raised a New Yorker and the attack on 9-11 hit home in many ways. In the 20 years since, the Naval Special Warfare community has been in sustained combat. There have been no days off. Couples and families separated, fathers away from their children—all with the realization of what it means to be operating as the tip of the spear in defending our Nation. And for 20 years, the Navy SEAL Foundation has been serving these families. CEO Robin King and her team have built an incredible organization.
Your generous support enables NSF to provide a comprehensive set of programs for SEALs, SWCCs, veterans, and families specifically designed to address the fraying of the force caused by the stress of such an immense period of sustained combat, to keep them strong, healthy and in the fight. And when these warriors are ready to transition from active duty, NSF is there to serve as well. Young men who became SEALs right after the towers fell are now beginning to retire from service. While these men are exceptionally resilient, they have endured injuries and hardships that most of us cannot imagine, and some will continue to battle the negative effects of what they have experienced well into the future. NSF is here to support this next step in their journey as well.
I am humbled to welcome live and virtually active duty and retired SEALs along with their families, and Gold Star families who survive the ultimate sacrifice made by their loved ones. We can never replace them but we will always honor their memory in our unwavering support.
We all have a role in this struggle. And your participation tonight is part of your role in supporting our countrymen in harm’s way and their families.
Thank you and enjoy your evening.
Steve Zide 2021 NEW YORK CITY BENEFIT CHAIR
