Title
Proclamation honoring Fallen Marine Memorial Run founders Joe Wadlow and Jerry Vanasdale.
Body
WHEREAS, each year, countless families are left behind as United States soldiers are killed in battle; and
WHEREAS, United States Marine combat veterans Joe Wadlow and Jerry Vanasdale came together in January 2006 to develop a fundraiser to assist the family of Marine Sergeant Sean H. Miles, who was killed in combat while serving in Iraq; and
WHEREAS, combining their passion for helping Sgt. Miles' family and their shared love of motorcycles, Mr. Wadlow and Mr. Vanasdale, along with a small group of dedicated volunteers, organized the first annual “Fallen Marine Memorial Run”; and
WHEREAS, the event quickly drew support from motorcycle enthusiasts and military supporters from all throughout Pennsylvania and its surrounding states; and
WHEREAS, over the past three years, the event has grown considerably, drawing crowds of supporters and raising thousands of dollars to help several families of fallen Marines; and
WHEREAS, the third annual Fallen Marine Memorial Run was held on Saturday, July 12, 2008 at Dingbats at the Pittsburgh Mills Mall and featured live entertainment by Chuck Negron, former lead singer of Three Dog Night, Johnny Angel and the Halos, Gary Beloma and the Blue Bombers, and the Hewlitt/Anderson Band; and
WHEREAS, additionally, the event included food and drinks, vendor attractions, and a special guest appearance by Larry Richert of KDKA, all of which contributed to another extraordinarily successful fundraiser;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council commends Joe Wadlow and Jerry Vanasdale for their exceptional vision in organizing the Fallen Marine Memorial Run. Furthermore, we recognize Mr. Wadlow and Mr. Vanasdale for their continued commitment to honoring the sacrifices of our fallen Marines by assisting their loved ones in their greatest time of need.