Thanks to Firehouse Subs I have been able to recognize some really incredible heroes.
Today we recognized U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Daniel Thomas (a Soddy Daisy native) who is currently stationed in Senegal West Africa working in a training program designed to build relationships and coordination between the U.S. and it's African partners. Thomas and his men are training the Senegalese infantrymen in American tactics and exercises. Daniel says he can't wait to get back home to his wife and family, hunting and fishing here in TN and Griffins Hot Dogs.
Pastor David Pharr-This pastor from St. Elmo Church of Christ recently lost right at 100 pounds and just completed a grueling endurance race "The Last Annual Vol State Road Race. He was among a few other local finishers who completed this 314 mile race. It took him just under 6 days. What a hero!
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Samuel Johnson-Sam, a native of Fort Oglethorpe Ga was recently honored as the "Sailor the Year" in the Military Times. After returning after a 2nd, eighth month tour in Afghanistan-he faced some tough times. He missed the camaraderie he'd felt being around the other soldiers every day and he wasn't very interested in re-engaging with family and friends here at home. He attended a 5K roadrace in Virginia Beach and became exposed to "Team Red White & Blue" a support group of mostly military personnel who get together for regular physical and social activities. He got involved and learned that there were not that many members of that organization where he was stationed at the time. He relentlessly began recruiting and soon after saw the group grow to 1,400 members.