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American Red Cross Metro New York North Announces 2017 Red & White Ball, "A Salute to Service and Valor”

Greenwich Residents to Co-Chair Ball Honoring Extraordinary Acts of Courage and Service

The American Red Cross Metro New York North will honor U.S. Army Veteran J.R. Martinez and NetJets at its 2017 Red & White Ball on April 29, 2017, at the NetJets Hangar at the Westchester County Airport. In addition Spencer Stone, Alex Skarlatos and Anthony Sadler Jr. will be presented with the American Red Cross Hero Award.

U.S. Army Veteran J.R. Martinez will receive the American Red Cross Exceptional Service Award. Martinez, who was severely wounded in Iraq, is a Purple Heart recipient, a motivational speaker, and the winner of Dancing with the Stars. Martinez will be recognized for his devotion to spreading his message of inspiration and resilience in the face of his devastating injuries.

Mary Young, CEO, American Red Cross Metro New York North, said, “We are delighted to have such extraordinary honorees. J.R. Martinez reminds us all of the importance of strength and courage,a message that strongly resonates with the American Red Cross as we support our military and respond to disasters across the country and around the globe.“

On the news of his award, JR. Martinez said, “I have experienced first hand the Red Cross’s commitment to the military. I am deeply honored to receive this award.“

NetJets will receive the American Red Cross Corporate Leadership Award, in recognition of their unparalleled support of the American Red Cross Red & White Ball. Adam Johnson the Chairman and CEO of NetJets Inc. will accept the award.

Young said, "NetJets generosity towards the Red Cross helps ensures that we are able to carry out our critical mission and be there for our community when they need us most. We are so grateful for their friendship and partnership.“

Adam Johnson said, " NetJets is honored to receive this award, but The American Red Cross deserves all the praise. It is an extraordinary organization that positively impacts the lives of so many people. We are proud to partner with them and support their humanitarian mission. "

Spencer Stone, Alex Skarlatos and Anthony Sadler Jr. will be awarded the American Red Cross Hero Award for their extraordinary courage in thwarting a gunman on a French high speed train saving countless lives. Mary Young said: “These three men never hesitated. They jumped right into action at their own peril to save the lives of the passengers on the train. They are true heroes and we are thrilled to be able to thank them for their courage and selflessness.”

The Red & White Ball transforms the NetJets Hangar into a ballroom complete with magnificent table settings created by local designers. The Ball is the primary source of funding for the American Red Cross in Metro New York North, serving Greenwich, Conn., Westchester County, and the Lower Hudson Valley. The Ball will feature fine wine and food, music and dancing, and outstanding live and silent auctions, which showcase one-of-a-kind items and experiences.

The 2017 Ball Co-Chairs are Linda Chase-Jenkins and Ilona Kaali-Nagy from Greenwich.

Ticket and more information about the event can be found at Redcross.org/mnynball

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.

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