Honor for a Fallen Soldier

Heather Ainsley
ECB Publishing, Inc.

Each year, the National Guard Armory hosts a fundraiser event in honor of Robert Allen Wise, a soldier who was killed in the line of duty in Baghdad on Nov. 12, 2003. Wise was a machine gunner in a company 3rd Battalion 124th Infantry, and died of shrapnel wounds to the head when an insurgent detonated a 155mm round that had been planted on the road traveled by Wise's humvee.
This Saturday, Sept. 18, at the McMillan Armory located at 1225 Easterwood Dr., Tallahassee, Fla., the National Guard will be hosting the 9th Annual Robert A. Wise Chili Cook-Off. This chili cook-off bears the name of a soldier who gave all for his nation and serves as remembrance of his actions, as well as for all who have made sacrifices for the United States of America.
All of the proceeds are donated to Honor Flight Tallahassee and to the Collegiate Veterans Association (CVA) of Florida State University (FSU).
Robert Wise was the first Florida National Guard Soldier killed in action to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery, and is remembered fondly by all who knew him as having “an infectious smile and an indomitable spirit.”
Robert's mother, Tammy Wise-Thrash, attends the cook-off each year with pride as she watches so many honor her son. “The chili cook-off is extra special to me because the guys who served with Robert conceived the idea as a way to honor and remember Robert, and also to serve their community.” Tammy said, saying that the cook-off gives her an opportunity once a year to catch up with the individuals who worked closely with her son, allowing her to catch up in their personal lives, their careers and their families. It is a chance to meet their children and watch them grow.
The inclusion of Robert's name in honor of his service to FSU's Collegiate Veterans Association is fitting as, according to Tammy, Robert had plans to eventually enroll at FSU.
“Roberts name being attached to Honor Flight Tallahassee is the highest honor I can think of!” Tammy stated, “Robert is buried at Arlington National Cemetery- we toured it when he was a young child. It was his decision to be buried there in the event that he was killed in action. Robert knew exactly what Arlington is and what it stands for, and that it is the final resting place for a good portion of our nation's heroes. To have his name be a part of an organization that takes our veterans to Washington D.C. to see their monuments just warms my heart through and through.”
Robert kept very good company with his Florida Army National Guard companions. Tammy expressed her gratitude in being able to remain a part of their lives for what she calls, “this very special day for this very special event.”
The event will take place Saturday at 12 p.m. Admission is $12 and each ticket covers the entry fee, two beverages (beer, water or soda) and chili tasting from every booth. Children 12 and under are free.
To all the men and women who have served, or are currently serving our country, thank you for your service and sacrifice. You help make our country better, one soldier at a time.