Southport Magazine

Giving troops another reason to smile
On September 10, veterans, active military personnel and their families can take advantage of a special day of recognition designed to thank them for the sacrifices they make. Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry is participating in a nationwide program, called Freedom Day USA, that’s aimed at thanking those who serve to protect our freedoms.

With offices on Oak Island and on N.C. 211, Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry plans to offer selected dental services to approximately 60 patients. Services are by appointment only, and include a free cleaning, filling, crown, or extraction.

“Our men and women of the Armed Forces make great personal sacrifices in order to secure and protect our freedoms,” said Dr. Robert Martino, founder of the Freedom Day USA event. “Their families have endured hardships and some have given all they have so that we may live in peace, free to pursue our dreams.” Dr. Martino started Freedom Day at his chain of dental offices in West Virginia in 2013. In the release about this year’s events, Dr. Martino also thanked Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry’s Dr. Aaron Wilharm for participating in Freedom Day; Dr. Wilharm is actually a state director for the Freedom Day event.

Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry Director of Community Relations Ashley Pate said this is the third year the office is participating. “It is a way to say ‘Thank you’ and give back to our military active duty members and veterans,” she said. Five dentists work with Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry — Gregory Hohl, Darren Harrington, Aaron Wilharm, Tony Michelakis, and Matt Miller.

According to a release from Freedom Day USA, a complete list of participating businesses can be seen at www.FreedomDayUSA.com. “Military family members have constant worry for their loved ones’ safety and make daily sacrifices that most Americans cannot imagine. To show appreciation, each business participant is providing a thank you gift, in the form of free services, goods, discounts, and various other offers,” the release states.

To learn more about this National Thank You Movement or to sign your business up as a participant, you can contact Ashley Pate at Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry (910.253.7535), visit www.FreedomDayUSA.com   or the event’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/FreedomDayUsa. Locally, Baked with Love, Southport Animal Hospital and Family Chiropractic Plus are also participating.