I remember where I was when I heard the news….. another soldier who would not be coming home from our fight for freedom.  

This time it was not just another name.  It was a Glastonbury boy.  It was someone I did not know personally, but, someone I knew of.  I had met his beautiful fiance before.  I knew they planned to be wed this September.  I knew he was only weeks away from finishing his tour of duty.  So, a year ago, having just read the facebook post about SGT Steven DeLuzio’s death in Afghanistan, I sat at my desk and my eyes welled with tears.  This time, the sacrifices of our soldiers and of their families was a lot more “real” to me than they had been at any other time.

So, when we were asked about contributing to the first annual Steven DeLuzio golf tournament, a tournament to benefit two scholarships funds in Steven’s name as well as a military charity, we were honored to be a part of the event.  This was an amazing tournament- a FULL field of golfers – some many golfers that some had to be turned away!   And, the banquet to follow had close to 300 people in attendance – including the parents of two other boys who recently lost their lives in military service.  I have photographed charitable golf tournaments in the past – and this was something extra special. 

Please be sure to mark August 20th of next year on your calendars for the 2nd Annual Steven DeLuzio Memorial Golf Tournament.  I imagine it will be just as amazing as the first – and, a wonderful way to keep the memory of this amazing young man alive.

To Mark, Diane, Scott, Leeza and everyone else who held Steven so dearly, my blessings to you.  I am in awe of your strength as you mark this one year anniversary.  Thank you for allowing me to participate in this event.  And, thank you for your commitment to our country and to our freedom – even at the cost to your family.  We, as Americans, are indebted to the many families who have lost their sons and daughters. 

Sooooo many volunteers helped out!

Some of the live auction items included a gorgeous custom watch by Baribault Jewelers, a basketball signed by the UCONN women’s basketball team and a Traveler’s Championship package…. and some amazing raffle prizes!

But this was the auction item that brought everyone to tears….handmade quilts were promised to Steven and to his brother when they left for duty.  Steven’s brother received his upon his return, but Steven did not.  This auction item is the fulfillment of a promise.  It was auctioned off – to Steven’s mom – and to a standing ovation and a room full of wet eyes.  What a beautiful memory and keepsake – a work of art and a promise kept.