GFWAR Annual Membership Meeting Luncheon

October 9, 2024 | 11:30 am - 1 pm

River Crest Country Club

Join us for the GFWAR Annual Membership Meeting, featuring Corporal Donald Graves, Iwo Jima survivor and member of Roll Call of North Texas.

We'll hold the vote on the slate of 2025 GFWAR Officers and 2025-26 Directors.

We'll also invite all REALTOR® members to vote on the pending unification of The Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS® and the Arlington Board of REALTORS®. Please note that only REALTOR® members are eligible to vote and no proxies will be allowed. Current GFWAR REALTOR® membership status will be verified at the door.

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Corporal Donald Graves is a proud survivor of the Battle of Iwo Jima, where he fought with the US Marine Corps' 5th Marine Division, 28th Marine Regiment. Born in Detroit in 1925, he felt compelled to enlist after Pearl Harbor and joined the Marines at 17. At just 5'6" and 145 pounds, Graves carried a 72-pound flamethrower and fought his way up Mount Suribachi, witnessing the historic flag raising that became a symbol of American resilience.

The brutal six-week battle left only 18 of the 335 men in his unit. After the war, Graves struggled with the trauma of his experiences. A turning point came nine years later when he attended a Billy Graham program, leading him to fulfill a promise he made on Iwo Jima to serve God. He became a minister, serving for 32 years alongside his wife, Rebecca.

After retiring and losing his wife, Graves moved to Texas, where he became an active public speaker. As a member of Roll Call of North Texas, he speaks at over 100 events annually, sharing his story and honoring veterans. His passion for educating and inspiring others remains undiminished, even as he approaches his 100th birthday!

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Thank you to our sponsor!

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