Courtyard Bethlehem Sponsors Wounded Warrior Project
Courtyard Bethlehem/ Lehigh Valley sponsors and hosted veterans on behalf of the Wounded Warrior Project on the weekend of July 29th. The event was put together in recognition of their service to the armed services of the United States.
The 68 war veterans from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York participated in the events that was highlighted by a scuba diving certification for each of the veterans that took place at Dutch Springs in Lower Nazareth Township. Each veteran proudly received their scuba diving certification, which was part of the Wounded Warrior Project’s Physical Health and Wellness Program.
The annual event is organized jointly by the Wounded Warriors project and the Handicapped Scuba Association and is designed to help these handicapped war veterans stay active. The 15- hour course included several open water dives. Stewart Snyder of the Handicapped Scuba Association said, “You put them in the water… it empowers the soldier to go out and help themselves more”
Peggy Godfrey who is the Director of Sales for the Courtyard Bethlehem / Lehigh Valley, which is located 2220 Emrick Blvd, Bethlehem, PA was instrumental in making this event happen. There event was kicked off with a pre-ceremony meal at the Courtyard as well as a celebration event on Saturday night where the veterans received their scuba certifications. Peggy coordinated donations from local businesses who assisted in making this event a reality. A special thank you goes out to Banko Beverages, Sam’s club, Texas Roadhouse, and Ruby Tuesdays for the kind generosity of supplying food and drinks for both nights.
Peggy says, “It is my most cherished event that we host at the Courtyard. I get to laugh, cry, and enjoy the many stories that the veterans share throughout the course of the weekend.”
The Wounded Warrior project offers an array of programs for injured veterans. The goal is to empower veterans and provide activities for their families and caregivers. For many, the program helps rekindle a sense of camaraderie. Since many of their friends are still serving overseas, the veterans are able to fill part of a void with the friendships they gain during the program.
