‘One Hero at a Time’ benefit honors military veteran wounded in Iraq

Combined image features photos of the 2018 "One Hero at a Time" recipient veteran Ruben Cervantez combined with patriotic imagery, locations and dates not specified | Photos of Cervantez courtesy of Mesquite Gaming, patriotic image by mj0007/iStock/Getty Images Plus, St. George News

MESQUITE, Nev. — Featuring live bands, an ongoing raffle and an out-and-back ride, the sixth annual “One Hero at a Time” benefit will honor the 2018 recipient, veteran Ruben “Doc” Cervantez.

The event is sponsored by Mesquite Gaming, owner of CasaBlanca Resort and Virgin River Hotel, and will take place June 30 from noon to 7 p.m. PDT (1-8 p.m. MDT) in the Virgin River Pavilion in the Virgin River Hotel and Casino.

While the main events will take place starting at noon, as part of “One Hero at a Time,” guests are invited to participate in the special out-and-back ride. Motorcycles, trikes, cars and trucks are all welcome. Kick stands will go up at 8 a.m. PDT (9 a.m. MDT) from the back door of the event pavilion at the Virgin River Hotel. The ride will go to Gunlock State Park in Utah and back.

About Ruben “Doc” Cervantez

Cervantez, United States Navy Hospital Corpsman Second Class (Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist/Surface Warfare Specialist), deployed to Iraq in 2005 with the 3rd Battalion 25th Marines, Lima Company out of Columbus, Ohio. Deployment to Iraq was uneventful for the first few weeks, earning their company the nickname “Lucky Lima.”

However, from May through August 2005, repeated improvised explosive device blasts and Al Qaeda insurgents ambush attacks decimated the unit, killing over 40 Marines and sailors. Cervantez came under frequent attacks by multiple IEDs. The injuries he sustained led to his medical retirement from the Navy in 2012.

He suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury and a spinal cord injury. Among his military awards and decorations is the Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat “V” Distinguishing Device for valor.

“One Hero at a Time” will feature live bands playing all day, special video showings and ongoing raffle drawings. Confirmed bands include Closure, Most Wanted, Identity and the Randy Anderson Band.

Bar concessions will also be open all day. There will be veterans information tables on sight as well.

Cervantez will be present throughout the day, and there will be several special presentations on stage as well as appearances from past recipients.  

This very special event provides opportunities for attendees to meet and shake hands with the nation’s veterans.

The benefit is open to all ages for a suggested donation of $20 at the door. All of the proceeds will be given directly to Cervantez.

Find more information about Mesquite Gaming on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

•  S P O N S O R E D   C O N T E N T  •

Event details

  • What: “One Hero at a Time” benefit and concert for veteran Ruben Cervantez.
  • When: Saturday, June 30, noon to 7 p.m. PDT (8 p.m. MDT) | The special benefit ride will start at 8 a.m. PDT (9 a.m. MDT).
  • Where: Virgin River Pavilion, Virgin River Casino, 100 East Pioneer Blvd., Mesquite, Nevada.
  • Cost: Suggested donation of $20 at the door.
  • Facebook event page.

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @STGnews

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