Everything Red, White and Blue!

Honoring our Veterans and First Responders and celebrating over a decade of supporting burn survivors at Dallas Country Club!

Dallas Country Club

Monday, November 10, 2025

Check-in: Begins at 10:45 AM

Reception at 11:00 AM

Luncheon: Begins at 11:30 AM

Keynote Speaker

Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Mario Lopez is a wounded warrior, Purple Heart recipient, and artist whose journey of resilience inspires audiences nationwide. Following the attacks of September 11th, Mario enlisted in the Army in 2003, serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2008, his vehicle struck an IED, leaving him with burns over 54% of his body, the loss of his right arm, vision in his right eye, and several fingers on his left hand.

Despite life-changing injuries, Mario found healing and purpose through his faith, family, and art. He taught himself to paint with his non-dominant hand and now showcases his work in galleries and exhibitions across the nation. He and his wife, Danielle, co-authored How I Know: A Story to Strengthen Your Faith, and together share their testimony and message of perseverance. Today, Mario is a proud Texan with a family of six and remains devoted to creating, inspiring, and reminding others that “Life Is Worth Living!”

Special Guest of Honor

Mr. Don Graves, WWII Marine Corps Veteran and Iwo Jima Survivor, will open our ceremony performing “the greatest song ever written”, our National Anthem. Mr. Graves is one of two remaining from his unit to have survived the tragic battle in the Pacific in World War II. Now 100-years-old, he has attended the 80th and 81st Anniversaries of D-Day in Normandy, and will travel to Pearl Harbor for the 84th Anniversary this year.