The Pastor of First Baptist Church of Greater Toledo, Ohio was among a small group of family members that met with President Trump prior to the medal ceremony. "It was my honor to stand-in for my father," Dan said. Dr. William Bellavia passed away 18 months ago. But Dan wore his Dad's gold watch to the White House and family members said they felt the presence of their father.
"For me and my family, one of the greatest things was meeting some of the heroes that David served with; Sgt Colin Fitts and Gold Star parents who lost their children. Every time I saw them, it was like meeting another member of my family," said Dan Bellavia.
When asked what's ahead for David, his brother said it's too early to know for sure. But he told us, "David is a servant. He learned it from his parents. Whatever he does, it's going to be in service to us all."
