February 21, 2025 Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL (February 21, 2025) – The Indian River State College Foundation’s Annual Clay Shoot attracted 136 participants and generated $153,000 in support of student veterans and military family services at Indian River State College. Originally planned for Veterans Day but postponed following Hurricane Milton, the event was held at the OK Corral Gun Club in Okeechobee. Two distinguished veterans were event special guests: U.S. Army Staff Sgt. David G. Bellavia, who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in Iraq, and Richard Rossi, a centenarian who earned four Bronze Stars and the French Legion of Honor for his service in World War II.
Stars and Stripes proudly wave at the entrance to the OK Corral, welcoming participants to the annual clay shoot fundraiser.
“Indian River State College stands above all others in its dedication to veterans – no institution in Florida or across the nation does more,” said Medal of Honor recipient SSG David Bellavia. “Being here today, surrounded by fellow veterans and those who champion veteran and military family education, is truly meaningful. The bond of brotherhood is palpable. Indian River State College’s commitment to supporting veteran education exemplifies the finest aspects of our nation’s values.”
In the clay shooting competition, Gordon & Partners claimed the top team honors with an impressive score of 344. The individual high scorer award went to Jim Anderson with 98 out of 100 targets. Colton Simpson took home the veterans division trophy.
Medal of Honor recipient SSG David Bellavia delivers an inspirational address to an attentive audience of clay shoot participants.
Adding to the day’s excitement, the National Anthem was performed by Abelard Cesar, an Indian River State College employee. Participants also took part in raffles featuring items generously donated by community partners. The highlight was a highly anticipated firearms raffle showcasing a rare Remington Model 700 7mm rifle, one of only 10 produced in this limited series. Modified by Park West Arms and featuring an etched Florida state logo, this exceptional firearm was donated directly from Remington’s private collection. The rifle, with Florida’s Governor possessing number one in the series, was described as “priceless” by collectors and generated significant interest among participants, contributing substantially to the fundraising success.
The funds raised will provide scholarships, career assistance, and vital support programs for Indian River State College student veterans and military families.
A determined marksman takes aim during the clay shoot competition.
“The overwhelming response from our community, resulting in $153,000 raised, demonstrates the deep commitment to supporting our veterans’ educational journey,” said Annabel Robertson, Indian River State College Foundation Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “This record-breaking amount will have a transformative impact on our ability to serve those who have served our country.”
“We are beyond grateful to Presenting Sponsor Gilbert’s Family of Companies, the Culbreth and Luna families, and all our community partners for their generous support of Indian River State College Military and Veterans Services,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College and U.S. Army veteran. “This event surpassed all our expectations. Beyond raising vital funds for the College’s Military and Veterans Services, we had the extraordinary privilege of uniting veterans across generations – from World War II to Operation Iraqi Freedom. It powerfully demonstrates our community’s enduring commitment to service and support of our military families.”
SSG David Bellavia, America’s first living Iraq War Medal of Honor recipient, shares a moment of camaraderie with President Timothy E. Moore.
“As a multi-generational family business and longtime supporters of Indian River State College, the Gilbert’s Family of Companies is honored to serve as Presenting Sponsor for this extraordinary event,” said Bert Culbreth, Member of the Indian River State College Foundation Board of Directors and the Board’s Fundraising Committee Chair. “Together with my parents and sister, we believe deeply in supporting our veterans and military families through education. This clay shoot exemplifies the incredible impact we can have when business leaders and educational institutions work together to serve those who have served our nation.”
The event was made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsor Gilbert’s Family of Companies, along with key sponsors including 4K Plumbing & Consulting, Airstron, Armadillo Dirt Works, Belfore, Blueline Defense, Cima Health, Core & Main, CRI, Diamond Defense, Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Enterprise eFleets, Ever On, Federated Insurance, FPL, Global Tech, Gordon & Partners, International Training, Joaquin and Sons, John Barbieri, Kimley-Horn, Level 4 Financial, The Lott Brothers, Martin County Business Development Board, Michael Hageloh, Miller Clinic, Michael Cantor, Palm Beach Aggregates, Proctor Construction, Pro-tc.us, Quality Commission, Remnant Construction, Remington, RTH TV, Seacoast Bank, South State Bank, Shiftculture, Soludemics, Southern Eagle Distributing, Spiezela Architects, St. Lucie Mets, Sterling Project Development, Special Forces Restoration and Construction, Team Parks, Tremco Roofing, Tri County Towing, The Tucker Group, Universal Engineering Services, Walpole, Williamson Cattle Company.
Mark and Christa Luna, Gil Culbreth, SSG David Bellavia, Bert and Krissy Culbreth, Alex Luna, and Chanley Kessler.
For more information about supporting veteran education at Indian River State College, visit irsc.edu or call (772) 462-4786.
##
About Indian River State College Foundation: The Indian River State College Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports Indian River State College’s mission by building partnerships, securing resources, and strengthening community awareness to help students achieve their dreams.
About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 120 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas.
Media Contact: Kathleen Walter, Public Information Officer, kwalter1@irsc.edu
