Lindsey LaBelleWeb Editorial AssistantEmail
Captain Shannon Gregory has been serving his country for 20 years, but his time back in Minnesota will not be spent resting.
Gregory enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1992 and is now a full-time member of the Minnesota National Guard’s 34th Combat Aviation Brigade. He has deployed twice in support of operations Noble Eagle and New Dawn.
“I’ll probably just get grounded back home, and maybe run the Twin Cities Marathon this year,” Gregory said of his plans for his time back home. “Other than that, getting a lot of family time, get in some lake time, catch some fish and enjoy watching my boys play basketball, too.”
Gregory was honored Wednesday night before the Timberwolves took on the Houston Rockets as part of Heroes United, a program presented by the Timberwolves FastBreak Foundation and Roger and Nancy McCabe that recognizes Minnesota troops for their dedication and service.
“After several long deployments, it’s good to be acknowledged by fans, friends and family,” Gregory said. “It’s kind of surreal.”
His center court honors with family in tow will be remembered as a big moment in 2012, but one other milestone stuck out this year during his deployment.
“Landing on a ship in the middle of the Persian Gulf,” Gregory said. “Army aircraft don’t always land on ships, but when we do, it’s kind of a big deal.”
The Minnesota FastBreak Foundation also celebrates the Season of Giving presented by SPIRE Federal Credit Union. During the month, the Foundation focuses on giving the holiday season a little sparkle for Minnesotans in need, as well as recognizing those in the community who dedicate their time to assisting others.
The FastBreak Foundation honored Arise Ministries for their time and dedication spent counseling the at-risk teens in Minnesota on Wednesday night. For over 30 years, Arise Ministries has been counseling and mentoring teens in communities and juvenile corrections centers. Arise works with over 300 at-risk youth and hosts special events to brighten their lives throughout the year.
Timberwolves Senior VP of Marketing Communications and CMO Ted Johnson, and SPIRE Federal Credit Union president Dan Stoltz presented Roger Koskinen, Keith Winter and Jessica Wittkop of Arise Ministries with a team-signed basketball.