Gala to honor strength, sacrifice of Silver Star families

The Rolling Hills Blue Star Moms, Chapter 27, will host "An Evening of Silver Stars" Gala on Saturday, April 11, from 5-9:30 p.m. at the California Aerospace Museum in McClellan Park, bringing together community members, military families and supporters for a powerful evening honoring Silver Star Mothers and families while raising funds for Team River Runner, a nonprofit supporting veterans' recovery through adaptive water sports. The formal gala will recognize the strength and sacrifice of Silver Star families — those whose loved ones were wounded or injured while serving in the United States Armed Forces — while advancing the organization's ongoing mission to support active-duty service members, veterans and their families. The evening will feature a special guest appearance by Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews (Ret.), a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was critically injured during the attack at Abbey Gate in Kabul, Afghanistan, in August 2021. His story of resilience and recovery has become a symbol of courage for military families nationwide. The program will also include the world premiere of a song dedicated to Silver Star Mothers and families by acclaimed performer Tim Maggart, adding a moving artistic tribute to the evening's program. "This evening is about honoring the extraordinary strength of Silver Star families while coming together as a community to support those still on the path to recovery," said Jan Rusk, 3rd Vice President and Past President of Rolling Hills Blue Star Moms CA-27. "Every ticket purchased and every donation made directly supports programs that serve our nation's heroes and their families." Proceeds from the gala will benefit Team River Runner, an organization dedicated to helping veterans and their families find healing, purpose and community through adaptive paddle sports and outdoor experiences. General admission tickets are $75 with multiple sponsorship opportunities available ranging from $500 to $20,000, including exclusive underwriting opportunities tied to the evening's program and featured guests. The organization operates entirely on donations and volunteer support. Tickets and donations are available at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/an-evening-of-silver-stars-gala. Formal attire is requested. For more information, to donate, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Rusk at Jan.Rusk@yahoo.com and 916-719-6857.