By: Ryan Duey
America’s Veteran Traveling Tribute Wall, along with special First Responders and K-9 Unit Walls will be on display at the National Guard Armory in Concordia from June 5th-9th.
To make this tribute as special as possible Rita Goodwin, Senior Coordinator, and her team are putting on raffles for some amazing prizes donated to them for this special occasion. Goodwin spoke about the importance of honoring these heroes.
“We have these men and women who go into the military as young men and women. They’re in there, and they grow up a lot in just the first year alone. Some have made a career out of it and they’re constantly striving to do their best for us. And many are here now, still serving us as First Responders.”
“Also, the K9 units. The dogs are a special part of those families, and they’re trained to do their job. We just don’t always comprehend the challenges that they face every day.”
Some of the raffle items that were generously donated include a 2025 Can-Am Defender, guns, meat bundles, a Liberty Gun Safe, and much more. Goodwin said while the funds will help secure the walls, they are hoping to raise additional funds through these raffles to support area First Responders who mean so much to the communities.
“We have our Sheriffs, our Highway Patrols, our Firemen, our Ambulance Drivers, different people that do different things. The equipment that they use, not all the counties can afford to buy a new piece of equipment.”
“We have to do something to raise the money, raise awareness. So that’s what I’m trying to do now. Raise awareness and money so that the equipment that might need repaired or replaced can be.”
The organization will also hold Hog Roast Fundraisers around the area. All information, including raffle items, where to purchase raffle tickets, upcoming fundraisers, and contact information can be found on www.freedomtribute.org.
