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Conflict art exhibit honors service members who made ultimate sacrifice

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Graffiti of War Project hosted a VIP event Saturday at Canvas Tattoo & Art Gallery in observance of Memorial Day.

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Gallery owner Jason Baker, a former U.S. Army Ranger, gave recognition at the event in NoDa to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Graffiti of War Presents: The Walls of War tour provides the world with a unique glimpse into the lives of military men and women who experienced modern warfare through documenting and displaying conflict art they created while serving in combat.

GOW founder Jaeson “Doc” Parsons challenged people to remember those who lost their lives while serving the U.S.

Joe Galloway, journalist and war correspondent, shared a few words on his experiences and personal battle with PTSD.

Galloway’s wife, Doc Gracie, shared her stories working with the Community Free Clinic and those with PTSD.

Others in attendance were Dr. Ness, an art therapist, Stephen Tenner, COO of GOW, State Sen. Carla Cunningham, Sgt. Maj. Robert Patterson, recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, John Falkenbury, president of the North Carolina USO and Steve Sellers, Piedmont director for the USO.

The GOW Project hopes to continue sharing the collection of conflict art and looks forward to helping those with PTSD through art therapy and to continue to bridge the gap between soldier and civilian. 

The event helped raise funds for Veterans Bridge Home, a Charlotte-based nonprofit which focuses on bridging the gap between veterans and their community.