Bald Eagle Challenger Appears At Celebrators Conference – October 2018

The Celebrators Conference, hosted annually by Phil Waldrep Ministries in Pigeon Forge, TN, was created to encourage people to embrace their faith and to take on leadership roles in their communities.

On October 24th, 2018 Challenger was invited to participate in the the National Anthem Ceremonies. During an a cappella rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner performed by the singing group Veritas, Challenger was presented on Laura Sterbens’ glove. The evening was dedicated to celebrating our Veterans & Active Duty Military.

Laura Sterbens with Challenger

Spencer Williams presents Challenger to the large crowd attending the conference.

Special Guest speaker George W. Bush, the United States 43rd President and Founder of the the George W. Bush Presidential Center was also in attendance. Behind Stage, a short meet and greet occurred between Challenger and President Bush. Over the past 2 decades, Challenger has met 5 U.S. Presidents and has attended 2 Presidential Inaugurations & several Inaugural Balls.

President George W. Bush, Laura Sterbens, Bald Eagle Challenger

Challenger and George W. Bush first crossed paths in 2001 at the first New York Yankees home game following the historic World Trade Center tragedy — At game 3 of the World Series, George W. threw the first ceremonial pitch and Challenger performed a free-flight demonstration throughout the stadium during The Star Spangled Banner to honor the victims and fallen heroes of 9/11 and help raise the spirits of all affected Americans.