When I ran into the Harley-riding Border Patrol agents today, they said they were in town for a golf tournament at Terry Hills co-sponsored by the Border Patrol and that I should show up at 4 p.m. because "one of the real hereos" was going to get an award from the Border Patrol.

Mark O'Brien, from Marilla (just outside of East Aurora), served in Iraq as Marine corporal, where in service to his country, he lost an arm and a leg. O'Brien is married with a child (in the stroller, far right of the picture).

The group presented O'Brien with a $1,000 check as a token of appreciation for his service.  He received at least five standing ovations during the presentation.

I have been to hundreds of press conferences in my life and have never seen anything like this.

Press Release from the Genesee County Democratic Committee:

The Genesee County Democratic Committee will host Jon Powers, an Iraq War veteran and Democratic candidate for the 26th Congressional district, for an airing of the documentary, Gunner Palace, at 6:00pm Monday (May 12) at the Elks Club, 213 Main St., Batavia. Gunner Palace is a film based on the 2/3 Field Artillery unit that Powers served with in Iraq. Following the movie, there will be a question and answer session with Powers.

The cost is $25 for adults, $10 for students and free for any veteran wishing to attend.