NVF Celebrates 39 years of Service

Seated, Rick Seaman L-R Dan Wierichs, Shad, Travis Mills and Eric Lardiere

On August 4th, 2024, we gathered at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall in downtown Los Angeles, to celebrate our 39th Anniversary in a novel way: a Roast of our esteemed Founder. The brainchild of our team of intrepid volunteers, the Alpha Dogs, the event was anything but stuffy. 

The roast began at 3PM with guests arriving in Hawaiian-themed dress, Shad’s sartorial choice on most days. Board Chair Carole Bionda flew down from Napa, and Board Members Travis Mills and Dan Wierichs flew in from Colorado. Local Board Members Jim Watson, Dave Culmer, Dave Clanton and Rick Seaman were in attendance along with former Board Members Eric Lardiere and Doug Garnee. NVF’s special friend and Honorary Director Dan Lauria was there. Dan narrated Captain for Dark Mornings, Shad’s Vietnam memoir for us (available on Amazon). 

Under the main floor’s historic murals, guests mingled and enjoyed cocktails and other beverages along with delicious passed hors d’oeuvres from Mr. Ardi’s Catering. The son of Alpha Dog Debi Ardi, Mr. Ardi has catered for the last two Anniversary events for us. The Roast took place  in the 500-seat auditorium upstairs and opened with a photo montage of Shad’s career and history.

Football great Rocky Bleier, an Honorary NVF Board Member for over 30 years, sent a moving video message of congratulation and support with just a hint of roast. Joe Mantegna roasted Shad while praising the NVF. Alpha Dog volunteer Steve Mann opened the event. He was joined by Veteran Marc Thurston from Jewish War Veterans Los Angeles. Melinda Meshad performed her original song written for the occasion to honor the “Mad Man,” Shad. Long-time Board Member Rick Seaman was honored for his outstanding contributions supporting the NVF over many years.

Afterward, we enjoyed Mr. Ardi’s cupcakes to honor Shad’s 80th birthday. Many voices were raised in song as we sang “Happy Birthday” to Shad. It was an outstanding double celebration.