On Friday all of us in Orange County will finally have the honor and privilege to pay tribute to our veterans whose courageous sacrifices secured and maintain our freedom. After many years of hard work we will dedicate the first museum honoring veterans; Heroes Hall on Friday November 11. The museum is located on the Orange County Fairgrounds and the dedication will begin at 1:00.
The brave men and women who the museum honors had a clear understanding of their responsibility to keep our great nation free. Without regard to their personal safety or life they fought for our freedom. Their sacrifices are a sterling example for all of us. Every American has the sacred responsibility to do our part to protect our democracy and the republic. We are accountable to the heroes of our past and to the principles that keep us free.
Approximately 100,000 school aged children will tour the museum each year. The purpose of their visits will be to teach them the most important lesson of their lifetime……. “Freedom isn’t Free”. In addition to the school children over ONE MILLION other visitors will come to the museum every year.
Now, it is time for us to accept our responsibility and do our part as Americans to provide the tools to educate our children that tour the museum. Our sacrifices will not require us to give our lives or live with painful disabilities. We as a community, one of the wealthiest in the world, are responsible to be sure that our children are provided the resources to learn about the sacrifices for freedom and be prepared to be the guardians of our future.
In honor of our great men and women who held themselves accountable to ensure our freedom we must hold ourselves accountable to educate our children. You can do your part by making a contribution to the Heroes Hall Veterans Foundation, 830 N. Ross St., Santa Ana Calif 92701.
God bless you and God Bless America.
Nick Berardino, Chair of Orange County Fair Board + Heroes Hall Veterans Foundation Board Member
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