The Embassy of New Zealand in Washington DC and the ONE Campaign will host “A Special Tribute to U.S. Military Members, Their Families and Their Legacies,” Thursday, October 20, 2011, from 6-8 p.m. Featuring a special performance by world-renowned tenor Anthony Kearns, the invitation-only ticketed Embassy gala will benefit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) and the USO of Metropolitan Washington.
This will be Kearns’ second performance at the New Zealand Embassy to benefit the USO. Last year, New Zealand was the first Embassy to host a charity gala for the USO’s Wounded Warrior Program. It is the first time that the Embassy is teaming with the ONE Campaign to honor American military forces.
New Zealand Ambassador Mike Moore said New Zealand is proud to host the charity benefit for the USO of Metropolitan Washington and the VVMF’s effort to build the Education Center at The Wall; a place on the National Mall where military heroes’ stories and sacrifices will never be forgotten.
“I am pleased to host New Zealand’s second annual charity benefit for America’s armed forces and their families. This event speaks to the close relationship between the U.S. and New Zealand, and we’re honored to support those in uniform and their families, and say thank you for your heroic efforts of the past, the present and the future,” said Ambassador Moore.
Said Mr. Kearns: “I’m honored to participate once again in this fantastic event hosted by Ambassador Moore and the ONE Campaign. Last year’s event was truly inspirational – and I appreciate what New Zealand did to make it happen. I take pleasure singing at events where my music can help soothe wounds and be an inspiration and uniting force for peace throughout the world.”
“The New Zealand Embassy has been so generous to host this charity benefit for military families once again, along with the ONE Campaign,” said Elaine Rogers, president of the USO of Metropolitan Washington. "With their wonderful support, the USO of Metropolitan Washington can continue to make a difference in the lives and memories of local active duty service members and their families.
“The Kiwis were our steadfast allies during the Vietnam War – where 3500 courageous New Zealand heroes served their country and ours, including 37 lost and nearly 200 wounded,” said VVFM founder and President Jan Scruggs. “We are proud of this long-standing partnership that once again comes together to share a common bond. We look forward to honoring all who served and sacrificed during that era by building the Education Center at The Wall so their stories will never be forgotten.”
