There was an ugly time in this country when soldiers returning home would get spit on by rabid hippies. But times have changed and now even those who are anti-war know that it's not cool to be anti-soldier.

Our boys and girls in the armed forces deserve a little respect. And this Saturday at the Raleigh Hotel, we have the chance to show our gratitude to our homegrown heroes. "Artists for the Walking Wounded" is a benefit and silent auction where graffiti crew MSG Cartel, as well as a plethora of local artists and DJs will offer their mad skills to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project -- one of the coolest non-profits we know.

The Wounded Warrior Project promotes the well-being of wounded veterans by trying to end the cycle of neglect and apathy which has caused generations of veterans to be discarded when they return home. Erich Neumann, a local attorney who helped organize the event, wants to make sure the soldiers feel our gratitude.

He explains, "I have several friends that have been involved in our foreign campaigns and it seems that they are literally forgotten upon their return. They make the ultimate sacrifice to secure our freedom, but face foreclosures, ruined marriages, unemployment, etc. and sometimes during their deployment. Notwithstanding the physical and emotional costs combat imprints." The Wounded Warrior Project is doing its part "to foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded warriors in this nation's history." Right on.

• Art
• Culture