Annual Marine Corps Ball in Palmetto celebrates tradition, raises money for veterans

PALMETTO, Fla. (WWSB) - A longtime Marine Corps tradition is returning to Manatee County this fall, with a local organization using the celebration to also raise money and support veterans.Edward G. Valdez, founder and CEO of Valdez Veterans Alliance Services and a retired U.S. Marine Corps Master Sergeant, and Jade Falu-Valdez, president of the organization, joined ABC7 News at Noon and the ABC7 1 p.m. streaming newscast to talk about the upcoming 4th Annual VVAS Marine Corps Birthday Ball and Fundraiser.The event will be held Nov. 14 at the Palmetto Marriott Resort Spa.For Edward Valdez, the ball is rooted in the traditions that have long defined the Marine Corps.“The Marine Corps Ball is all about tradition. Honoring the past of the Marine Corps, how we came about, and then also honoring the present Marines,” Valdez said.The evening will include a traditional Marine Corps birthday ceremony, color guard, recognition of the oldest and youngest Marines, dinner, live and silent auctio