Tribute to the Troops Kicked Off in Ellenton

Lance Biddle, who is on a 30-day leave from his duties as a soldier after arriving in the country from Afghanistan, started his vacation with a fundraiser designed to honor his fellow soldiers.

Biddle kicked off "Tunes for Troops" at noon today with music, food and fun. Participants should pack their Kleenex boxes for the 5 p.m. ceremony to honor area service people who have died fighting since 9/11.

At 5 p.m. an honor guard will present the colors and play taps while Biddle reads off the 70 names of those who have died from this area.

After the ceremony, the rest of the night will be all about the celebration. It's time to say Happy Birthday America and thanks to Manatee Operation Troop Support for what they do to boost the morale of those serving overseas.

General admission is $5 per person with children 10 and under admitted free of charge. VIP admission, which includes preferred parking and seating, drinks and food is $35 per person. The event takes place across from the Crab Trap II in Ellenton. Look for the signs.