On Tuesday, September 13th, 2016, hundreds of veterans and their families gathered at Ford’s Theatre for a special performance of Come From Away. Sponsored by The Home Depot and Washingtonian, the event drew more than 400 veterans, family members, service organizations, and Members of Congress to the historic theatre for an unforgettable evening.
Ford’s Theatre director Paul R. Tetreault welcomed veterans and introduced Sen. Johnny Isakson for brief remarks. Veterans Administration Secretary Robert McDonald also addressed the crowd and expressed his gratitude to our men and women who serve.
Come From Away is an inspiring musical based on the true story of a small Canadian town that cared for more than 6,500 stranded airline passengers in the week of September 11, 2001. The production features a rousing score of folk and rock, and reveals hope and humanity in a time of darkness.
This event also allowed guests to reflect on one of the greatest presidents of our nation. The historic Ford’s Theatre calls to mind President Abraham Lincoln, his support of veterans, and the principles of freedom and liberty which guided his presidency.
With a rich history of supporting veterans and ending veteran homelessness, including hiring over 35,000 former servicemen and women, The Home Depot graciously underwrote the evening.
The Home Depot Foundation has given $160M to veterans causes since 2011, and recently pledged to grow its support to quarter of a billion dollars by 2020. The Home Depot Foundation and Team Depot, a 300,000-strong army of associate volunteers, work to improve the homes and lives of U.S. military veterans and their families and aid communities affected by natural disasters. Through Team Depot, thousands of associates dedicate time and talents to these efforts in the communities where they live and work.
Learn more about The Home Depot Foundation’s Veteran Housing Grants Program.
All photos by Evy Mages.
