Saturday, August 18, 2007

The Wounded Warriors Say “Te Aworo” (until later) to Bonaire

Today brings the final chapter in our report on the Wounded Warriors’ visit to Bonaire.  Since our last update, the warriors have had even more gifts and honors bestowed upon them by the island, which has opened its arms and heart to these injured American veterans.

On Friday, the Jewel of Bonaire, located in Kralendijk, opened its doors at lunch time for a private shopping spree for the warriors and their families.  Each warrior was provided with a gift certificate of $200.00, which all their families spent gleefully.

On Friday night, just prior to the Texas BBQ sponsored by Jack Chalk of Captain Don’s Habitat, the group met with Mike Hill once again.  Mike is the PADI representative for the island of Bonaire, and, after meeting the warriors on Monday evening and presenting them with their PADI badges, he asked headquarters to also fly in PADI hats, which were given to each.

A final surprise--Scott and Sharon Barlass, long-time residents of Bonaire, also arrived laden with gifts.  Scott is a former Marine and has generously sponsored both Wounded Warrior trips (October, 2006 and this event).  Each warrior and their family received a Bonaire bag filled to the brim with gifts and goodies.

But the end of the week comes all too soon, and the Warriors must say ”te aworo” to Bonaire (until later, in Papiamentu).  At noon today, the group boarded their Bonaire Tours bus for the final time, waving goodbye, as they made their way to the airport.  The island truly has been honored to have met these men and their families, and hopes to be able to wish them ”bon bini” again soon.

Images from Friday and Saturday are available on the Bonaire Insider Photo Galley by clicking here.  (Source:  Bonaire Insider Reporter)