By Alexandria Leatherberry
The Truth Reporter
The 2025 Silent Soldier Awards Banquet filled the banquet room of Delta Hotel on Sunday, March 2. Guests gathered in support of 16 honorees who were selected for their unsung work in the community. “This is a moment that we tell them ‘thank you’” said Rev. Cedric M. Brock, pastor of Mt. Nebo.
Mt. Nebo’s Voice of Hope Outreach Ministry has sponsored the Awards Banquet for over 20 years in order to recognize some of the unsung heroes from throughout the city and surrounding communities.
The Outreach Ministry also sponsors numerous community services such as: Rdio Outreach, Adopt a Haircut, Adopt a Belt, Coat Give Away, Sock Give Away, Good Friday Ham Give Away and a weekly broadcast.
Sunday’s program host was, as always, Larry Jones, who has served as master of ceremonies from the very first banquet. The event opened with a welcome from Councilwoman Cassandra Mcpherson which led into more remarks from leaders such as Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz.
After the musical selection, the invocation was offered by Bishop Darrell Sheares, pastor of Fresh Wind Church.
After dinner was served, Mt. Nebo First Lady Debra Brock sang in tribute to the honorees. The program continued to vibrate with celebration of unity amongst a diverse community to commence the presentation of the honorees led by Alan Crawford. This year’s silent soldiers included: Winda Birt, Alicia Boes, Michael Files, Del Ray Grace, Pastor Damon L. Horton, Jonathan James, Betty Johnson, Kevin Mikolajczk, Dan Ridi, Vera Sanders, Pastor Latonya M . Sheares, Steve Taylor II, Rev. Brandon Tucker, Rev. Mark Williams, Ray Wood.
The evening closed with remarks by Rev. Brock.
Rev. Brock has served as the pastor of Mount Nebo Baptist Church for over 30 years and began the Silent Soldiers initiative early in his term. The Silent Soldiers Awards recognizes those that contribute to the resources for their noble devotions.
