Social / Music / Dinner / Program / Silent & Live Auction
Date: Saturday, 18 October 2025
Time: Doors open at 5 PM
Location: The Monument / LaCroix Hall – Rapid City, SD 57701
Dear Supporter of our Heroes:
We are honored to invite you to our 12th Annual Gallantly Forward Gala on Saturday, October 18, 2025. This special evening unites our community to raise awareness and support for our brave warriors who continue to struggle with the invisible wounds of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
The night will open with patriotic music performed by Orion Potter and a Presentation of Flags by the Rapid City Police Department Color Guard. Guests will enjoy a social hour, a delicious dinner, an inspiring program, exciting silent and live auctions, and a musical performance by The Starfellows — 2 Brothers, 1 Piano, whose energy and harmonies will light up the night. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., and the program begins promptly at 5:45 p.m. Tickets are just $35 and must be purchased in advance. (Same price since 2014)
If you are unable to attend, please consider sponsoring a veteran’s ticket or donating an item for the auctions. Your generosity — whether through attendance, sponsorship, or donation — directly supports our mission.
This cause is deeply personal. On April 28, 2012, Sergeant Colton Levi Derr, who served with courage in Iraq and Afghanistan, tragically lost his life to suicide after battling PTSD. Known to his military brothers as “Delta Derr” for his toughness and leadership, Colton was respected as a mentor, a friend, and a soldier who gave everything he had. His story reflects a heartbreaking reality: every day, more than 20 veterans die by suicide.
In honor of Colton, the Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Foundation was founded in 2012 to support fellow veterans. For many, the fight does not end with the war. Coming home often does not bring peace — it can start another battle, quietly fought against unseen wounds of war. Our mission remains clear: to advocate for veterans, offer support, and raise awareness about the challenges our heroes face when they return home.
We invite you to join us in this vital mission by attending the gala, sponsoring a veteran, or contributing in another way. Together, we can stand against veteran suicide and bring hope and healing to those who have served.
