Lance Cpl Ricky Slocum, USMC

Santa Clarita residents gathered at retired firefighter Leo Miller’s house Saturday night to raise money for the Ricky Slocum Memorial Fund. Miller recently completed the remodeling of his patio and outdoor barbeque and kitchen. To celebrate its completion, he invited the community to attend a barbeque fundraiser in honor of the fallen Santa Clarita hero.

Ricky Slocum was a Saugus High alumnus who joined the Marine Corps shortly after graduating in 2003. He paid the ultimate sacrifice for our nation in 2004 near Abu Ghraib, Iraq. He was the victim of a Humvee crash while manning a gun turret during patrol duty. Ricky’s parents, Bob and Kay have formed the Ricky Slocum Memorial Fund. Their vision is to be able to offer financial assistance to returning veterans in Santa Clarita.

Miller recently attended an SCV Chamber luncheon at the Hyatt which was held in honor of Tempered Steel and the Ian Gelig Memorial Scholarship. Leo was inspired at that lunch to get involved. The completion of his patio was a perfect opportunity. He spoke to SCV Chamber board member Fred Arnold and Young Republicans membership director JD Kennedy to select a worthy cause. After speaking to Ricky’s parents, the announcement was made.

Among guests in attendance were friends and family of Ricky Slocum and other Gold Star Families. The SCV Young Marines volunteered to work the check in table and members of the Patriot Guard and American Legion Riders were also present. The fundraiser was a barbecue dinner open to the entire community and the community turned out in full force raising over $2,000 in the first fundraiser for the Ricky Slocum Memorial Fund.

Leo opened his bar at 5pm, selling beer, wine, and an assortment mixed drinks. Dinner followed with caesar salad, barbecued tri-tip, chicken, special ranch style beans and more. Admission was $10, but many guests made generous donations throughout the night.

If you were unable to attend but wish to make a donation, please send your check to: Ricky Slocum Memorial Fund, Attn. Leo Miller, P.O. Box 220255, Newhall, CA 91322.