Poker players have been called a lot of nasty things, so it is always a special day when we get to call them philanthropists. For most of the world's top players, day one of the main event of the
World Series of Poker is all about gathering information, but today Kenna James and Humberto Brenes spent their time giving information and raising awareness about the
Wounded Warriors Foundation. Laughing and smiling at the Poker Faces booth inside the
World Series of Poker Pavilion Center, James and Brenes were signing autographs, and taking photos during the unveiling of the Screaming Eagle card protector. You might not be familiar with
Poker Faces Inc., but if you have ever seen Humberto and his hungry shark, then you've caught a small glimpse of their product line. The Screaming Eagle card guard was developed in commemoration of our troops, and modeled after a hardcore group of card-slinging soldiers that play under the name of The Screaming Eagles Poker Association.
What started as a proactive way to pass time on the front lines has now evolved into a highly organized multinational tournament league, spanning all branches of the armed forces, both here in the United States and overseas. What's even more incredible is that there is no money exchanged in The Screaming Eagles Poker Association. These are servicemen and women who compete solely out of their love for the game, and for nothing more than the thrill of victory. It was evident in his voice that Kenna truly believes in the cause of the Wounded Warriors Foundation, and amongst numerous donations, Kenna was so inspired by the Screaming Eagles that he has decided to fly over to Iraq and host one of their tournaments in the near future.
After a brief speech in which he announced that a percentage of all proceeds generated from the sale of the
Screaming Eagle card protectors would be donated to the charity, Seth Weinger of Poker Faces Inc. presented James with a $2,500 check made out to the Wounded Warriors Foundation. In addition to the donation, Weinger also gave James a box full of Screaming Eagle card guards to give away as trophies to the real Screaming Eagles when he takes part in their next home-away-from-home game. While these screaming eagles protect our cards here at home, the real Screaming Eagles are busy protecting lives on the front lines, and it is a privilege to honor them.
Founded by Colonel John D. Folsom of The United States Marine Corps, the Wounded Warriors Foundation is a charitable organization responsible for providing vital support to the families of those who have been wounded, injured, or killed during combat operations. All donations collected help ease both the financial and psychological burdens imposed on the soldiers themselves, as well as the families of soldiers who were severely wounded or killed in the line of duty.
To learn more about the Wounded Warriors and how you can help, please visit www.WoundedWarriors.org.
