To the delight of guests, the inaugural Military Ball delivered heart-warming insights, music, awards, and stories that revealed the depth of commitment and service of military veterans in the San Diego community.

The Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 49, was honored to have special guests in attendance. Pictured below from left to right: Robert Hernandez, Jennifer Nguyễn, Paul Aguirre, Mrs. Ninh Nguyễn, Ken Lepore, Colonel Brendan P. Sullivan, George Waller, and Ms. Belen.

Jennifer Nguyễn uplifted the crowd with a stirring story about the war in North Vietnam and the healing power of one-on-one encounters, decades later. Colonel Brendan Sullivan spoke next, with decades of military service yet never a recipient of the Purple Heart, he had a new passion for the Purple Heart community. His presentation brought both smiles and a deeper understanding of what the Purple Heart medal means.

Bradley Styer, one of an elite small group of submarine experts in the military, regaled guests with his tales of some of the most extreme outcomes of a submarine mission. He lost friends, and his recital of the dangers opened eyes.

Father Chuck led all in a prayer for protection and gratitude, and soon it was time for a robust dinner, with an incredible array of desserts. All agreed the food was delicious, with many options including chicken, beef dish, roasted potatoes, great salad, and much more. The dessert table was busy – so many choices, so little time! Naturally an open bar rounded out the banquet experience!

It should be noted that is inaugural event was planned and emceed by Paul Aguirre, Senior Vice Commander of Chapter 49. His thoughtful approach to orchestrating the Chapter team is to be commended. With great assists from Ken Lepore, Chapter Commander, and Commander Robert Hernandez, ticket sales and sponsorships, venue plans and program, all came together. This Sunny Jones chapter brought this first Military Ball to San Diego and it is envisioned that this will become an annual event. You can be part of this 2025 celebration, and support by donating today. Do consider giving to one of the most cherished organizations our military has to offer.

A beautiful rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner was performed by Singer Mrs. Jamie, whose lilting vocals filled the ballroom, bringing tears to the eyes of some.

Following this, everyone heard about the Missing Man Table from Chapter Commander, Ken Lepore. This somber expression, a table set with certain symbolic items, is sometimes referred to as the “Fallen Comrade Table.” It is meant to remind viewers of those fallen, missing, or imprisoned U.S. Military Service Members. Each item on the table symbolizes different aspects of our feelings for those who have not come home.

As Ken Lepore explained, “The cloth is white symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to serve. The single red rose reminds us of the lives of these Americans and their loved ones and friends who keep the faith, while seeking answers. A bugle or red ribbon symbolizes our continued uncertainty, hope for their return, and determination to account for them. A slice of lemon reminds us of the bitter fate of those captured or missing in a foreign land. A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears of our missing and their families who long for answers. The glass is inverted to symbolize their inability to share a toast. The chair is empty because loved ones are still missing.”

The Missing Man Table moment was followed by a stirring Echo Taps ceremony. Two far corners of the ballroom hosted a bugler in each, one was Lieutenant Michael Timson,  and the other was a young man recruited to participate when a scheduled echo player could not attend. He is Kaito Kamioka, a Scout from Troop 1203, Mira Mesa, pictured right. Echo Taps involve some arrangement of “Taps” for two buglers, playing antiphonally to represent both the cadet’s branch of service and their college. It was a mournful, beautiful and mesmerizing experience. “Taps” is a bugle call sounded to signal “lights out” at the end of a military day, and during patriotic memorial ceremonies and military funerals. In this occasion, it honored the Missing Man.

Before dancing music and photos, a segment of the evening’s program was devoted to bestowing the Floating Purple Heart award to those who have contributed to the Sunny Jones Chapter. The two honorees this year were Kimberley Hubbard, San Diego Concierge (absent) and Teresa M. Young, CEO of Sign Biz, Inc., pictured right with Paul Aguirre. Young was recognized for contributing her technology skills to the Chapter, building and maintaining the SanDiegoPurpleHeart.com website, and providing graphic and e-commerce support over the years.

Now it was time for auction inspiration, dance music with accomplished DJ and photos! The auction notes were provided by Mike French, who was emotional as he conveyed the tremendous value of the items up for auction, and how the support would impact the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Many trips were available, starting at $200 for five days in a beautiful island resort!

Once the music kicked into high gear, everyone was abuzz and snapping photos. This was a very special event for the photo album, and next year will be even bigger and filled with more high impact, astounding moments!

As Teresa Young said in her acknowledgment address, “This room is filled with heroes. I am honored, and privileged to be here, and to be able to contribute something back, for all the givers in this room. I look forward to see you all next year!”