Purple Heart recipient to speak at fundraiser for wounded vets
DANIEL CLIFTON • PICAYUNE EDITOR
BURNET — Even as she talks about the sacrifices men and women of the armed forces have made, Lily Garst chokes up. Her husband is a former Marine, and she’s connected with several other service members.
On May 9, she’s opening her ranch, Garst Ranch, for Hearts and Heroes, a fundraiser benefitting the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation. The event is 1-5 p.m. at the property, 400 Thomas Ridge Road in Burnet. Tickets are $25.
“This is such an incredible organization,” Garst said. “All the donations from this event go to the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation. And 89 percent of what they bring in goes directly to our wounded and injured service members.”
The Highland Lakes Women’s Council of Realtors along with the Highland Lakes Association of Realtors is hosting the event.
While there are other similarly named projects, Garst said the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation maintains a high rate of money directly sent to men and women who need it. Plus, she pointed out, the money goes to wounded or injured Texas veterans.
“And most of the money we raise during this event will go to our wounded service members here in the Hill Country,” she added.
The event includes several guest speakers.
Retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General David Garza is one speaker. Another is Sgt. First Class Paul Martin of the U.S. Army.
“Sgt. Martin was the first person shot at Fort Hood (in 2009) when that psychiatrist started shooting,” Garst said. “He was one of those who recently just received the Purple Heart for that.”
Another speaker is Staff Sgt. Joshua Ives.
“Sergeant Ives is amazing,” Garst said. “He was blown up eight different times while overseas. He would get blown up, and he’d still go back over there.
“I just don’t know if we show these men and women the appreciation we should,” she added.
The event is a chance for people to show that appreciation. Along with the speakers, there will be music and food. J5 Steakhouse is providing the food.
There is also silent auction with lots of great items up for bid.
“We really need to get people out there to help raise money for this great organization and cause,” Garst said.
Tickets are available by emailing wcr.twwf@gmail.com; calling (512) 755-3998; or by stopping at the Highland Lakes Association of Realtors office, 4601 Innovation Loop in Marble Falls.
daniel@thepicayune.com