(Karri Bragg) – When I showed up an hour before opening to set up for our monthly First Friday gathering, I was surprised to see five or more car loads of guests waiting patiently in their vehicles. It didn’t take long for me to realize- these people weren’t first in line for drink specials, or interested in beating the crowd to meet the political candidates who show up every month. These folks were eager to meet our greatest First Friday VIP yet, the Fort Hood Hero herself, Sgt. Kim Munley.
At my request, Sgt. Munley took time out of her busy schedule and away from her lovely daughters, to come visit with us for the March edition of First Friday. During her first trip to Vegas, she took the opportunity to spend some time at Stoney’s with Clark County’s finest group of politicos, concerned citizens, and candidates over a few beers.
Sgt. Munley is by all definitions, a true American hero. Not only did she open fire on and take down Maj. Nidal Hissan, thus saving dozens of lives, she also received multiple wounds in the process. And her fans on Friday night in Vegas were very eager to say “thank you” for all that she has dealt with in the last few months.
Just under 400 guests gathered on Friday evening to meet Sgt. Munley- our biggest crowd yet! When she took the stage, she received extended applause. Not only is this gal feisty and brave, she also proved to be quite spunky as well, telling the crowd, “I hear y’all get a little rowdy…I hope to see someone riding that bull before we leave here tonight!”
When she left the stage, she was greeted by a long line of guests waiting to speak with her and pose for pictures. Pictures from the event taken by Citizen Outreach staff may be viewed at our Flickr page under “First Friday Nevada.”
Sgt. Munley’s attendance on Friday was a special treat for all in attendance. Not only did we have the opportunity to say “thank you” to someone who is directly responsible for saving the lives of American soldiers, all of us who had the opportunity to chat with her learned that bravery and boldness can come in a very small, modest package. This young woman is a true patriot. We are grateful that she made it out to Vegas to celebrate with us, First-Friday style!
(Ms. Bragg is Vice President for Citizen Outreach Foundation, sponsors of the Las Vegas First Friday Happy Hour)
