As 2023 comes to a close, we look back at some of the best moments this year here at Military Makeover.
President George W. Bush’s Surprise Visit
One of our favorite moments in Military Makeover history is when President Georgia W. Bush had a reunion with Carlos Colon-Ruiz. Carlos was impacted heavily during his journey in the military by President Bush. In 2008 while Carlos was on tour in Afghanistan, a rocket-propelled grenade exploded and seriously injured him while in the line of duty. President George W. Bush awarded Colon-Ruiz a Purple Heart and received an Infantry Badge and Army Commendations medal. 15 years later, Carlos reunited with President Bush on Military Makeover. This time President Bush could properly meet the hero.
Hollywood Christmas Parade
This year we had the honor of participating in the Hollywood Christmas Parade. Each year this iconic parade in Los Angeles features organizations and charities dedicated to supporting underprivileged individuals during the season of giving. Military Makeover was proud to participate in the event.
Montel Williams was one of the hosts for the parade. He celebrated with viewers along the parade route and participated in the Marine Toys for Tots collection. Montel Williams, Art Edmonds, designer Jennifer Bertrand, and the Military Makeover’s producer, Nick Richman all participated in the parade route in a convertible. The 91st Anniversary of The Hollywood Christmas Parade took place on November 26th in Los Angeles.
News Max Interview
Military Makeover co-host, Art Edmonds, joined for an interview on Newsmax’s Sunday Report. On the show, the Edmonds discussed the remarkable and inspiring story of Carlos Colon-Ruiz, who was the recipient of the 36th season of Military Makeover. Carlos was deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan and encountered life-altering injuries. He was awarded a Purple Heart and received an Infantry Badge and Army Commendations Medal.
Edmonds highlighted the spirit of Military Makeover and our commitment to honor veterans. This year we renovated three homes for military veterans and made it our 36th home in our history. Take a look at the interview here.
Thank you for a Fantastic 2023!
We are thankful to all our sponsors and supporters this past year. Without you, none of these moments would be possible. We continue to offer hope and a helping hand here on the home front to members of our military and their loved ones. So, here’s to 2024!
