Game 4 – Warrior Wishes Come True at the Panthers Game!

After making Warrior Wishes come true at an unbelievable game in New Orleans…

My dad made his way back home to spend a day with the grandkids before catching his 5am flight back to Charlotte for the 2nd time this week (he had a layover there Monday morning on his way to New Orleans).

We have made some unforgettable memories in Charlotte throughout the years. Personally I will never forget meeting David & Frank at our first Panthers game ever. We had a blast hanging out together.

It’s been a true honor to host so many amazing warriors throughout the years. We’ve had fun on the sidelines, enjoyed pregame fun at the NASCAR Hall of Fame and always enjoy tailgating with our friends!

My dad touched down in Charlotte just after 8am and spent the morning working on setting up a few future events. Eventually he made his way downtown to meet up with the warriors.

Today we had the honor of hosting Army Sgt Ralph Pruitt and USAF Senior Master Sgt Kelly Gabard at the Panthers game.

Sgt Pruitt was wounded while serving in Iraq on Feb 8th, 2011. He was nominated to us by his wife who said he is a “HUGE” Panthers fan! Her wish was to send him to a game and we are happy to finally make that wish come true!

SMSGT Kelly Gabard proudly served our country for 26 years! Kelly was nominated to us by her daughter, Brittany, who says she wanted to show her mom her appreciation for her dedicated service and all that she has done for her and her daughter. We are thankful to have had the opportunity to show our appreciation to her too!

The group met up at the Mecklenburg county Sheriff department where they got a police escort to the stadium!

After snapping a few pictures in front of the stadium the group made their way over to meet up with our friend, Joe Scaldera. Joe and his tailgate crew have been helping us make Warrior Wishes come true since 2013! Panther super fans and the warriors enjoyed the tailgate experience before heading inside the stadium to watch the Bucs Kick things off against the Panthers.

We surprised the warriors with front row seats!

Unfortunately, they had to evacuate the seats in the 1st quarter due to severe weather in the area.

Once the rain stopped the game started back up. Unfortunately the Panthers came up a little short, literally… With 1:25 left in the game, trailing by 6, the Panthers failed to convert on 4th and 1 from the 2 yard line. The Bucs took over on downs and ran the clock out to seal the deal.

Despite the loss, the warriors had “a day to remember forever.”

We couldn’t have made this experience possible without the support from the Mecklenburg county Sheriff’s dept, our friend Joe Scaldera and his tailgate crew, and everyone who has helped support our mission throughout the years! We are thankful for all of you!

Most importantly, we are thankful to those who selflessly serve our country especially Army Sgt Ralph Pruitt and USAF Senior Master Sgt Kelly Gabard. Thank you for your service!

My dad will be spending the next few days in Charlotte before taking a $1 megabus to Atlanta for the Sunday night showdown between the Eagles & Falcons. Stay tuned for more details!