It was a send-off worthy of a good cause and a good man.
Next week Navy Lt. Johnny Benda will drive across country to meet his ship, the USS Gary in San Diego, California.The frigate will set sail for South America, where it will remain for the n ext six months.After returning to its homeport in San Diego, Benda will remain there with it for the next five years.
To say goodbye, his friends and family threw an “Off to the Amazon” party for him last night at The Auld Sod.Somewhere along the lines in the planning process, the idea came about to make the party a fundraiser for the Dedham Food Pantry, according to Benda’s brother Kenny.Partygoers were asked to donate $5 at the door, and over $600 was raised.
“We wanted to send my brother off in style, and to do some good at the same time,” said Kenny Benda.“All’s well that ends where, and let’s home everyone gets home safe.”
Two local bands performed for the crowds, both with Dedham frontmen.Kenny Benda’s Booth Road was on first, and they were followed by Ryan Walsh’s Hallelujah the Hills.
