News Summary
The Golden Boot Awards are set to take place in Anaheim, featuring a new cowboy chic theme to create a more casual atmosphere. Benefiting families of fallen heroes, the event will honor notable figures and will include performances and an auction. Organized by Honoring Our Fallen, the gala aims to support and remember sacrifices made by service members and first responders.
Anaheim, California will host this year’s revamped Golden Boot Awards, a gala that supports families of fallen heroes. Taking place on Saturday, September 13, at the City National Grove of Anaheim, the event is organized by Honoring Our Fallen and marks a significant change after 14 years of tradition. This year, the awards celebration is designed to be more approachable and enjoyable, steering away from formal attire in favor of a cowboy chic theme.
Among the honorees being recognized at the awards this year are acclaimed actor Dennis Quaid, Gold Star parents Herman and Alicia Lopez, and the Associated General Contractors of California. Their contributions to the community and support for fallen service members and first responders will be highlighted during the event.
This year’s gala promises an engaging atmosphere with a concert-style setup, featuring a performance by Texas country singer-songwriter Coffey Anderson. Guests are encouraged to don cowboy boots and jeans, creating a casual vibe that reflects the organizers’ aim for a more relaxed experience.
Laura Herzog, the CEO and founder of Honoring Our Fallen, states that the shift in theme is intended to make the event more inclusive and fun. The aim is for attendees to feel comfortable and enjoy supporting a vital cause without the pressure associated with formal gala dresscodes.
Proceeds from the Golden Boot Awards will directly support the mission of Honoring Our Fallen, which assists families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country. This commitment included recognizing Herman and Alicia Lopez, who lost their son, Marine Cpl. Hunter Lopez, in a bombing at the Kabul airport in 2021. The Lopezes have played an important role in providing assistance to families affected by military losses and have spearheaded initiatives such as the Flag for Every Hero event, which honors fallen service members by placing flags on graves at Riverside National Cemetery on Memorial Day.
Herzog noted the importance of continual remembrance for families of fallen heroes, emphasizing that for them, each day serves as a reminder of their loved ones rather than just holidays. This event seeks to highlight their sacrifices while providing a supportive community for the families affected.
Attendees looking to join the cause can find ticket information by visiting HonoringOurFallen.org. The City National Grove of Anaheim is located at 2200 E Katella Ave., Anaheim, and the event will also include cocktails, dinner, and an auction aimed at raising further funds for the organization.
This year, the auction featured various items, including autographed guitars, which helped raise $5,500 in memory of Staff Sgt. Jerry Betzold, a Marine who recently passed away. The gala has previously raised over $30,000 in support of Honoring Our Fallen, showcasing the community’s commitment to supporting families who have endured tremendous loss.
Additionally, Laura Herzog has supported families throughout an unprecedented number of casualty missions this year, assisting them in logistical needs during their difficult times. The event not only recognizes individual efforts but also emphasizes the collective strength of the community in honoring Gold Star families.
The involvement of celebrities such as Quaid and Anderson serves to further amplify community support for those who have sacrificed for their country, ensuring their legacies are remembered and celebrated.
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Additional Resources
- ABC7 News: Golden Boot Awards
- Wikipedia: Gold Star
- OC Register: Tribute to Fallen Marine
- Google Search: Dennis Quaid News
- VVNG: Adelanto High’s Heritage Program
- Google Scholar: Education Programs
- Soccer Wire: Awards and Best XI Honors
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Soccer Awards
- OC Register: Anaheim Council Contract
- Google News: Anaheim Council News
- Victor Valley Daily Press: Adelanto High School Heritage Program
- Google Search: High School Awards
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
