OK Guys,
This is serious and I truly hope you read this.
Last evening, I was deeply moved during the 2nd quarter presentation for the recipient of evening’s “Heroes Among Us Award” and would like to share the moment with all of you.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the program, “The Heroes Among Us Award is presented to an individual or individuals who, through their unique commitment and humanitarian spirit, have made exceptional and lasting contributions to our community. At each home game, the Celtics and their fans have saluted the exemplary efforts of these citizens during a special in-game presentation.” (Celtics.com)
Last night’s award was given to Kevin & Eileen Jones of Westminster MA on behalf of their son Ryan who was killed last May in Iraq. Ryan was only 23 years old when his vehicle hit a roadside IED.
Ryan’s parents were there last night because “Before Army Lieutenant Ryan Jones left for Iraq, he gave his parents an envelope with instructions not to open it unless he lost his life in battle. After Ryan was killed during active duty, his parents opened the letter to find out that Ryan left instructions to use his $400,000 life insurance policy to start a scholarship at his High School.
Ryan’s parents have not only established his scholarship, but also created the Ryan Patrick Jones Heart of a Hero Foundation to support the charities that Ryan cared about the most. (Direct from last evening’s introduction)
23 years old, killed in Iraq. 23 years old, killed while thinking of others. A true hero.
There wasn’t a dry eye in my section as Kevin & Eileen received a few minute standing ovation.
This morning I spoke with Boston Celtics Community Relations Manager, Matt Meyersohn. Matt informed me that the Ryan Patrick Jones Heart of a Hero Foundation is accepting donations and that these donations would be considered tax deductible once the Foundation gets 501(c3) recognition.
I AM ASKING YOU TO JOIN ME IN SUPPORTING THIS
(And I am willing to put my money & Sox tickets where my mouth is)
I apologize if this sounds a bit hokey, but I believe this board is full of good people. Obviously we all care deeply about the Celtics and I know from the level of passion in the previous political posts, this board is full of people who care deeply about our country’s soldiers (No matter what opinion of the war you have).
What better way for all of us on Celtics Blog to honor the team we love and the men & women who serve our country than to support the Ryan Jones Foundation which was honored by the Celtics?
Ryan Patrick Jones Memorial Foundation
c/o IC Credit Union
124 Main St.
Westminster, MA 01473
Tax ID #26-1611030 All money received goes into this fund until the foundation is completely set-up (they are in process)
I am making a $100 dollar donation to the Foundation and ask all of you to join me in supporting the Celtics and the memory of Army Lieutenant Ryan Jones.
As I mentioned, I talked with Matt Meyersohn and he spoke with Ryan’s parents today. I told him that not only was I going to donate $100, but that I was going to ask all of you to reach into your hearts and donate as well. I told him that above and beyond my donation, I would match the first $150 to Ryan’s Foundation that came in referencing Celtics Blog.
Also, every donation of $20 or more referencing Celtics Blog that comes into the Foundation before 8/15 will be entered into a random drawing for two tickets to the 9/2/08 Red Sox game against the Orioles (If I had Celtics tickets, I'd offer those). Someone at the Foundation will draw the name and hold onto the tickets.
I cannot imagine how difficult it was for Kevin & Eileen last night, but I can only imagine how proud they are of their son. The Celtics have given us a tremendous amount of pleasure this year as has this board. I ask you all to reach into your hearts and wallets and send $20 to the Ryan Patrick Jones Memorial Foundation.
Thank you.
Peace & Go Celtics