5TH ANNUAL

Dinner for the Heroes

OPFOB-Red-Star-300x300

The Craig Ostergard 5th Annual

DINNER FOR THE HEROES

DATE: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

TIME: COCKTAILS @ 5:30 PM

DINNER & PROGRAM @ 6:30 PM

LOCATION: HILTON BEACHFRONT RESORT & SPA, HHI

COST: $300/PERSON

Honoring 25 Years Since 9/11
Twenty-five years ago, our nation was forever changed.

In the days and months that followed, Americans came together with an unwavering sense of patriotism, unity, and service. Thousands of brave men and women answered the call to defend our country, while first responders continued to stand watch here at home. This year's Dinner for the Heroes is a tribute to that generation: to the Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders whose lives and sacrifices were shaped by the events of September 11, 2001.

As we reflect on this milestone anniversary, we'll honor those who stepped forward when America needed them most and recommit ourselves to ensuring they never fight their battles alone.

Why It Matters

  • Celebrate the 25th anniversary of 9/11 by honoring the post-9/11 generation of veterans and first responders.
  • Join one of the Lowcountry's premier patriotic events, bringing together community leaders, supporters, and heroes for an unforgettable evening.
  • Every dollar raised helps keep OPFOB's 268-acre campus and life-changing programs 100% FREE for veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and their families.
  • Support our mission to prevent veteran and first responder suicide by restoring purpose, building community, and creating lifelong connections.
  • Help us continue meeting a growing need, with more than 55,000 visits to OPFOB in less than six years.

We are honored to welcome Major James Capers, USMC (Ret.), a Vietnam War veteran and the most recent recipient of the Medal of Honor, as our special guest for this year’s Dinner for the Heroes. A South Carolina native, Maj Capers is a true American hero whose extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines embody the spirit of this special evening. His story is one of remarkable bravery and service, and we are privileged to have him with us as we gather to honor the veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and families who continue to serve our nation and communities.

We're also honored to welcome Bart Oates, three-time Super Bowl Champion and longtime advocate for resilience, leadership, and mental wellness, as our keynote speaker. Bart's connection to the post-9/11 generation is deeply personal. His son was serving on active duty during the attacks and deployed soon afterward, giving Bart a unique perspective on the sacrifices made by military families and the lasting impact of a nation at war.

This is more than a fundraiser.

It's a night of remembrance.
A celebration of service.
A tribute to the generation that answered the call after 9/11.

Join us as we honor the heroes of the past 25 years, celebrate the enduring spirit of our nation, and invest in the future of those who continue to serve.

Together, we remember. Together, we honor. Together, we ensure no hero walks alone.

Website Events Collage (1250 x 1950 px) (1)
Maj Capers Website Collage

EVENT SPONSORS

Presenting Sponsor:

Craig Andra Ostergard_white2
Robin Howell 2_white
John Diane Hynes_white

MEDAL OF HONOR Sponsor:

Brian & Carol Stertzer_white
TSG-LOGO-White

Purple heart Sponsors:

White OPFOB Logo

"The Dinner for the Heroes is an opportunity to for us to recognize those that to continue to help us accomplish our mission daily. The support we receive ensures that no one is forgotten, and we continue to save lives both mentally, physically, and spiritually. OPFOB has done just that for me and many others to come. None of which would be possible without the support of our community."

USMC Master Sergeant, Iraq & Afghanistan Veteran, Purple Heart