Mother’s Day came early for 31 local military moms-to-be whose spouses are deployed members of the U.S. Navy and Army National Guard. The women were honored during an Operation Shower/Birdies for the Brave group baby shower with a sweet apple themed shower. The event was sponsored by Acosta Sales & Marketing, with support from THE PLAYERS, TPC Sawgrass, Lend Lease US Community Fund and Chicco.
The “Apple of Our Eye”-themed event was hosted by Tabitha Furyk, wife of PGA TOUR player Jim Furyk, and emceed by news broadcaster Tera Barz. Special guests included Holly Finchem, wife of PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem; Robin Williamson, wife of Admiral Ricky Williamson, Commander of Navy Region Southeast; Reyna McCall, wife of Captain Wesley McCall, Commanding Officer of Naval Station Mayport; and Teri Wanamaker, wife of Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax) Executive Officer Captain Howard Wanamaker.
“For military wives who are expecting a baby and whose spouses are deployed or soon to be deployed, the impending arrival of a child can be both exciting and stressful,” said Operation Shower Founder and Chief Shower Officer LeAnn Morrissey. “Operation Shower was created specifically to honor these courageous military moms for all they do at home that enables their spouses to proudly serve our country. We want them to know how much they are loved and appreciated, and provide them with an opportunity to celebrate this special milestone together.”
The shower included lunch, prize giveaways and an opportunity for the honorees to share camaraderie and gain support from other military moms in the same situation. The highlight of the event was the presentation of Operation Shower’s signature “Shower In A Box.” Each mom received a box containing an array of unique, high-quality products and gift items for mothers and babies that were generously donated by companies including Carousel Designs, Kids ii and Chicco. The gifts will go a long way toward raising the spirits of the moms-to-be, many of whom would not otherwise have the opportunity to experience a baby shower.
“We are honored to express our gratitude and support to these extraordinary military moms-to-be, whose service and sacrifice at home deserve to be recognized,” said Acosta Sales & Marketing Chief Human Resources Officer Rebecca Steele. “In the military, families serve, too; it is because of the strength, courage and perseverance of these amazing women that their military spouses are able to defend our freedom and help ensure all Americans enjoy a quality of life unmatched around the world.”
For photos from this wonderful day, please visit our Facebook albums here and here!
