Canton Iraq veteran Brandon Davis was honored this week during the Stand Up for Heroes event held at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City.
“I’m still in shock,” Davis said. “I bought my first non hand-me-down suit. Apparently all expenses are paid, so I’m just going to go and try not to make a fool of myself.”
Davis was chosen for the honor based on nominations solicited through social media channels. He was nominated by his boss, Brandon Wilson, the director of Veterans Services of the Carolinas.Prior to leaving for the event, Davis had no idea why he was selected for the honor or what the award involved except that he would be flying to New York and given the red carpet treatment.
“Brandon did this without telling me,” Davis said.
Davis said he was “more nervous than excited about the event,” and that he was hoping there would be “no speech involved.”
All was well, though, as the only expectation was to shake a few hands and pose for photos with those requesting it.
Davis was among 900 veterans nominated for the spotlight — but only one was chosen to represent the cause of Stand Up for Heroes.