General David Petraeus and the Men and Women of Central Command Receive 2009 AMERICAN PATRIOT AWARD before Nearly 630 People

/PRNewswire/ -- On Friday, nearly 630 people gathered to honor the National Defense University Foundation's 2009 American Patriot Award recipients: General David Petraeus, Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and the Men and Women of CENTCOM. The event, one of Washington, D.C.'s most prestigious galas, was held on Friday, November 13, 2009, in the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center.

Program participants for the 2009 American Patriot Award Gala included honoree General David Petraeus, USA, General Ann Dunwoody, USA, and General John Rogers Galvin, USA (Ret). Grammy nominated jazz saxophonist Ski Johnson performed live. Leon Harris, Anchor of ABC 7/WJLA-TV, emceed the event.

Five military heroes accepted the American Patriot Award on behalf of their services, along with General David Petraeus, USA. The five heroes included: CSM Rocky Shapla, USA; CDR Stephen Hall, USN; GYSGT Josue Magana, USMC; Tech. Sgt. Timothy R. Evans, USAF; LCDR Holly Harrison, USCG.

Notable guests included White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel; LTG Dennis Via, USA, Director, C4 Systems (J6) Joint Chiefs of Staff; and, National Defense University President VADM Ann E. Rondeau, USN; Members of Congress, the Administration, and Diplomatic Community; and past and present Armed Forces Service Heroes. The Gala was attended by more than 600 guests.

More than 40 "patriots" from all five branches of the military service attended this year's celebration, through the "Sponsor a Patriot" program. Many of these young patriots recently returned from Iraq, Afghanistan or other overseas deployments. Some are recovering from injury sustained while deployed; others are actively serving their country on military installations and in communities across America

Beyond honoring the recipients, the Gala supports National Defense University (NDU) and its crucial mission of educating national security leaders. Students of NDU are the next generation of ambassadors, national and international military commanders and civilian defense industry leaders -- patriots who have committed their lives to furthering the security of our nation and the world.

"Paying tribute to General Petraeus and the service men and women who put their lives at risk every day to safeguard our national security is the focus of this year's National Defense University Foundation's American Patriot Award," said Walter Stadtler, Ambassador (Ret), President and CEO, National Defense University Foundation. "These unsung heroes are the ultimate patriots and are most deserving of this award."

Previous recipients of the American Patriot Award include: The Honorable Henry A. Kissinger; General Colin Powell; The Honorable Caspar Weinberger; former President George H.W. Bush; The Men and Women of our Nation's Defense Team; The Honorable Bob Dole; The Honorable Daniel K. Inouye; The Honorable Ted Stevens; The Honorable John Glenn; The Honorable John Warner; and The Honorable Ike Skelton.

IBM is the Patriot Sponsor for this year's Gala. Eagle Sponsors include: C4 Enterprises, LLC; Lockheed Martin Corporation; and, Raytheon Company. Liberty Sponsors include: Agility Defense & Government Services; The Boeing Company; Caterpillar Inc.; EADS North America, Inc.; G4S Wackenhut and WSI; L-3 Communications Corporation; Northrop Grumman Corporation; William D. Smythe Family Foundation; and TriWest Healthcare Alliance.

The National Defense University Foundation, Inc. was established in 1982 to support and enhance the mission and goals of the National Defense University through promoting excellence and innovation in education by nurturing high standards of scholarship, leadership and professionalism.

The National Defense University is the country's preeminent institution for military, diplomatic and civilian national security education, research and outreach. It is the only university providing a common educational experience for all the various professional communities engaged in national security. The main campus is located at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C. For more information, please visit www.ndufoundation.org.

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The Phoenix Group Launches Wish Foundation for Active Military

/PRNewswire/ -- The Phoenix Group today launched a non-profit foundation that grants wishes for active duty Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen and their families. The Foundation strives to relieve the burdens of family separation, re-integration for deployed soldiers, hardship circumstances, and other means of assistance not covered by existing military charities.

The Foundation is driven by an interactive website (www.wish4ourheroes.org) allowing anyone to request a wish for active duty members of our Armed Forces. The website allows 'wish granters' to view wishes and contribute donations. Pictures and accounts of the granted wishes are posted online to allow contributors to see the impact made in the lives of our nations' heroes. The website also has apparel and merchandise available for purchase, and all sales benefit the wish program. The Phoenix Group's for-profit companies will contribute 10% of pretax earnings toward the Foundation, and will give employees the option of contributing a percentage of their paychecks to the cause. The Foundation will also rely on the generosity of other corporations and individuals to grant as many wishes as possible. Many foundations focus on assisting wounded soldiers and families of deceased soldiers, but Phoenix's foundation will focus on providing assistance and rewarding our heroes who may be experiencing other types of hardship.

"The Phoenix Group hires many former military soldiers into our various companies, and we would like to give something back to our nation's heroes who sacrifice so much to defend our great country," said Jeff Wells, President of Phoenix's Wish For Our Heroes Foundation.

The Foundation is headquartered in Greenwood, IN, with a second office in Houston, TX. It is dedicated in memory of 1SG Thomas G. Wells (1933-2009), a Marine Corps veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars, as well as all of our active duty military heroes. To learn more, volunteer, or make a donation, visit www.wish4ourheroes.org.

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General David Petraeus and the Men and Women of Central Command to Receive 2009 American Patriot Award

/PRNewswire/ -- The National Defense University Foundation (NDUF) announced today the recipient of this year's American Patriot Award: General David Petraeus, Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and the Men and Women of CENTCOM. The recipients will receive this prestigious award at a black-tie event, American Patriot Award Gala, on Friday, November 13, 2009 held in the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center.

In honor of the recipients, General Ann Dunwoody, USA, and General John Rogers Galvin, USA (Ret), will make remarks, and Grammy nominated jazz saxophonist Ski Johnson will perform live. Additionally, His Excellency Samir Sumaida'ie, Ambassador of The Republic of Iraq and His Excellency Said Jawad, Ambassador of Afghanistan will attend. Both Ambassadors have CENTCOM locations in their respective countries.

NDUF's American Patriot Award Gala is one of Washington, D.C.'s most prestigious events, attended by nearly 600 guests, including senior Administration officials, Members of Congress, senior military officials, Ambassadors, and corporate and community leaders. Beyond honoring the recipients, the Gala supports National Defense University (NDU) and its crucial mission of educating national security leaders. Students of NDU are the next generation of ambassadors, national and international military commanders and civilian defense industry leaders -- patriots who have committed their lives to furthering the security of our nation and the world.

"National Defense University Foundation's American Patriot Award recognizes exceptional Americans who have demonstrated a profound and abiding love of country and whose inspirational leadership and selfless dedication symbolizes our nation's ideals, values and democratic principles," said Walter Stadtler, Ambassador (Ret), President and CEO, National Defense University Foundation. "General Petraeus and the Men and Women of Central Command, have played a vital role in safeguarding national security -- especially during these times of heightened security, and for their efforts, they are well deserving of this award."

Previous recipients of the American Patriot Award include The Honorable Henry A. Kissinger, General Colin Powell, The Honorable Caspar Weinberger, former President George H.W. Bush, The Men and Women of our Nation's Defense Team, The Honorable Bob Dole, The Honorable Daniel K Inouye and The Honorable Ted Stevens, The Honorable John Glenn, The Honorable John Warner, and The Honorable Ike Skelton.

The National Defense University Foundation, Inc. was established in 1982 to support and enhance the mission and goals of the National Defense University through promoting excellence and innovation in education by nurturing high standards of scholarship, leadership and professionalism.

The National Defense University is the country's preeminent institution for military, diplomatic and civilian national security education, research and outreach. It is the only university providing a common educational experience for all the various professional communities engaged in national security. The main campus is located at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C.

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American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial Reaches 90% of Fundraising Goal

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Disabled Veterans' LIFE Memorial Foundation, Inc. has secured 90 percent of funding needed to break ground on the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial (AVDLM) in Washington DC, announced the Foundation's Co-founder and Chairperson Lois Pope. With the final phase of the fundraising campaign now kicking into gear, Pope added that $5.9 million must still be raised through corporate and individual donations before the Memorial can become a reality.

Unlike other war and veteran memorials, the AVDLM will be dedicated to both living and deceased disabled veterans, including army, navy, air force, marines and coast guard. The focal point of the Memorial design will be a star-shaped reflecting pool, its surface broken by a single eternal flame. A grove of trees will stand sentry beside the pool, symbolizing the persistence of hope. Michael Vergason Landscape Architects, Ltd., of Alexandria, Virginia, designed the Memorial following a national invitational design competition.

“When Congress approved the Memorial for Washington DC and President Clinton signed it into law, one of the stipulations was that 100 percent of the money needed to design, build and maintain the Memorial had to come from private donations,” said Pope. “And the Foundation, which was created to raise these funds, must have all the funds in place before construction can begin. We're almost there.”

The Memorial will command an impressive two-acre site between Washington Avenue SW, C Street SW and Second Street SW, in Washington DC. It will be within full view of the United States Capitol, adjacent to the National Mall, and across from Independence Avenue and the United States Botanic Garden.

“It is important to remember that of the 26 million American veterans living across the world today, three million are permanently disabled from injuries suffered in our nation's defense,” said actor, director and musician Gary Sinise, the Memorial's national spokesperson. ”It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to recognize the sacrifices that our country's disabled veterans have made on behalf of us all.”

The Foundation anticipates breaking ground on the Memorial in 2010. The Disabled Veterans' LIFE Memorial Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit and donations are deductible to the fullest extent of the law. To make a donation, or for more information, visit www.avdlm.org.

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Join Atlanta Braves Players and the Atlanta Braves Foundation in Providing Tickets for Members of the Armed Forces on Military Appreciation Night

Join Atlanta Braves Players and the Atlanta Braves Foundation in Providing Tickets for Members of the Armed Forces on Military Appreciation Night, Saturday, May 23rd


The Atlanta Braves are inviting fans to join the team in sending our nation's heroes to a game at Turner Field free of charge. Local businesses and individuals can provide members of the military with free entry on Military Appreciation Night, Saturday, May 23rd, by making a donation of tickets to the Atlanta Braves Foundation.

Donors of 25 tickets or more will receive four tickets to attend the game, along with recognition for their donation on the Golden Moon Casino Level LED boards.

Atlanta Braves Brian McCann, Mike Gonzalez, Kenshin Kawakami, and Rafael Soriano, and the Atlanta Braves Foundation will be among those providing tickets to recognize the service and sacrifices made by members of our nation's Armed Forces. Businesses or individuals who would like to take part in Military Appreciation Night by making ticket donations can go to www.braves.com/military or call 404-614-1444.

Special pre-game ceremonies on Military Appreciation Night will include a tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country, a performance by the Fort Stewart Army Band and a military fly over at the conclusion of the National Anthem.

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Lockheed Martin Provides Major Sponsorship Gift for Expansion of National Museum of the Marine Corps

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation has announced a donation of $10 million from Lockheed Martin, the world’s leading global security company. The 10-year Lockheed Martin gift will expand the National Museum of the Marine Corps’ Education and Community Outreach Programs, as well as add a large-screen theater to the Museum complex. The gift significantly advances the Foundation’s efforts to raise $85 million for the completion of the National Museum and Marine Corps Heritage Center in Quantico, Virginia.

Robert J. Stevens, Lockheed Martin’s Chairman, President, and CEO said, “Our nation needs a strong Marine Corps, one built on a rich heritage dating back before our nation was born. This project will combine Marine Corps heritage with professional development to address the most challenging issues we face today. We are pleased that our commitment to the National Museum of the Marine Corps will support the completion of this important resource for the Corps and the nation.”

“We are deeply grateful to Lockheed Martin for its exemplary generosity and social responsibility,“ said LtGen Ron Christmas, USMC (Ret), President and Chief Executive Officer of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. “This wonderful gesture will help the Foundation to fulfill its vision of bringing forth a multi-dimensional, world-class facility to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages, from across our Nation, time and time again.”

Retired Sergeant Major of the Marine Corp John Estrada, now a project manager for Lockheed Martin, helped announce the contribution. He noted, “Understanding our history and how we can build on it helps Marines be creative, innovative and able to adapt to changing world situations, and continue to be the world’s best fighting force.”

The Museum depicts America’s history as seen through the eyes of Marines since the founding of the Marine Corps in 1775. Contributing to the professional development of Marines, Lockheed Martin is also sponsoring the Foundation’s popular “An Evening with…” lecture series, with distinguished speakers addressing current world topics with students of the Marine Corps University, business and community leaders, and members of the public.

The addition of a large-screen theater will help expand the visitor appeal and educational impact of the Museum through the screening of action-oriented films themed on the Marine Corps and the corresponding history of our nation.

Related plans for project completion include: installation of interactive exhibits that will fully chronicle the contributions of the United States Marine Corps from its 1775 founding to the present day; the construction of a memorial park and chapel offering visitors opportunities of remembrance and reflection; completion of the National Museum structure; and the implementation of visitor programs focused on education. To see plans and video illustrating expansion of the Marine Corps Heritage Center, visit www.MarineHeritage.org.

Dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Marine Corps history, the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation was established in 1979 as a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization. The Foundation supports the historical programs of the Marine Corps in ways not possible through government funds. The Foundation provides grants and scholarships for research and the renovation, restoration, and commissioning of historical Marine Corps artifacts and landmarks. Securing the necessary funding for the complete construction of the National Museum of the Marine Corps and Heritage Center is the Foundation’s current primary mission while continuing to provide program support for the Corps’ historical, museum, and educational activities.

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Infantry Museum Offers Pavers as Unique Holiday Gifts

(ARA) - The holiday season brings with it one of the toughest decisions of the year: What to buy loved ones for Christmas. But this year, consider precious stones -- though not the ones you think.

The new National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, scheduled to open March 2009 in Columbus, Ga., will honor the contributions of infantrymen and those who fight alongside them. Among the many magnificent attractions of this facility will be Heritage Walk, paved with stones honoring those living and dead who have made the ultimate sacrifice: infantrymen and their loved ones.

In the Footsteps of Heroes is a program developed by the National Infantry Foundation to give permanent recognition to heroes from all walks of life. The commemorative pavers, engraved with personal messages of gratitude, will line a 1,000-foot long, 20-foot wide walkway connecting the new museum and the parade field in Patriot Park. A kiosk will allow visitors to look up the exact location of their paver.

The National Infantry Foundation is selling the 4 inch by 8 inch granite pavers to support the mission of the National Infantry Museum and the Foundation. Each paver holds three lines of text; each line has room for 20 characters. The $250 cost is tax deductible and includes one free 2 inch by 4 inch replica paver that purchasers or honorees can keep on a desktop. Orders can be placed online or with a downloadable order form at www.nationalinfantrymuseum.com and brochures are available for mailing. Proceeds will be used to complete construction of the museum.

Pavers that have been purchased by Dec. 18, 2008, will be placed along Heritage Walk in time for the National Infantry Museum's grand opening on March 20, 2009.

"In the Footsteps of Heroes will honor everyone --active duty soldiers and retired veterans; Infantry, Armor, Airborne, Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard -- everyone who has fought for and protected our beloved nation," says Major General Jerry A. White of the National Infantry Museum. "This project will also pay tribute to the wives, parents and children who have supported, loved and sometimes lost their loved ones in the fight for democracy; they, too, have made brave sacrifices for the freedoms we hold dear."

The 200-acre new National Infantry Museum site is adjacent to historic Fort Benning, known as the "Home of the Infantry." The famed United States Army Infantry School was established at Fort Benning and, through the years, this institution emerged as the most influential infantry center in the modern world. The museum's galleries will be chock full of engaging exhibits with themes highlighting infantry experiences in military training, Medal of Honor recipients, the Officer Candidate School training experience, the contributions of Rangers and more. In addition, the museum's 300-seat IMAX Theater will bring giant screen movies to the Columbus region for the first time.

Supporters of the National Infantry Museum include corporations such as Chrysler, AT&T, Synovus, Aflac, Burger King, Coca-Cola, Colt and Samsung as well as foundations, government grants and over 900 individuals who have made donations or contributed to the commemorative paver program. More information about the National Infantry Museum and In the Footsteps of Heroes is available at www.nationalinfantrymuseum.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Bald Eagles Named in Honor of Fallen Military Heroes

(BUSINESS WIRE)--As America prepares to remember its military servicemen and women on Veteran’s Day, the American Eagle Foundation (AEF) held a special ceremony at its national eagle center to honor eight fallen soldiers who lost their lives in Iraq. In memory of these heroes, each of their families was invited to name a breeding bald eagle cared for by the conservation group (http://www.eagles.org).

“The bald eagle is the living symbol of the freedoms these brave men gave their lives to protect,” said AEF Founder and President Al Cecere. “To honor them and their families is truly a privilege for our staff, especially since our nation will soon observe Veteran’s Day.”

During the event on Saturday, the AEF awarded special certificates and medals to each of the participating families. Also, signs bearing the names of the eight soldiers and the eagles named by their families were placed near the entrance of the bird housing/breeding enclosures as a permanent tribute.

The AEF recognized the following East Tennessee soldiers: Army National Guard Sgt. Alfred B. Siler (Duff, TN), Army National Guard Sgt. Joseph D. Hunt (Sweetwater, TN), National Guard Sgt. Paul W. Thomason III (Talbot, TN), Army Staff Sgt. Daniel Morris (Clinton,TN), National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Kennedy (Oak Ridge, TN), Army Sgt. 1st Class James D Connell (Lake City, TN), Marine Lance Cpl. William C. Koprince Jr. (Lenoir City, TN), and Marine Cpl. Rusty L. Washam (Huntsville, TN).

The eagle names selected by the families of the soldiers were: “Volunteer” (Joseph Hunt), “Hero” (Stephen Kennedy), “Honor” (William Koprince Jr.), “Brave Heart” (James Connell), “Faithful” (Rusty Washam), “Peace” (Alfred Siler), “Faithful Spirit” (Daniel Morris), and “Freedom” (Paul Thomason).

The families were also treated to a free-flight demonstration by and photo with the AEF’s trained celebrity bald eagle “Challenger” (http://www.eagles.org/aefsplash/).

The captive non-releasable breeding eagles that were named are housed at the AEF’s Dollywood-based headquarters in Pigeon Forge. The birds were given to the non-profit organization in June 2007 by the San Francisco Zoo.

“Future eaglets hatched by these majestic breeding eagles will be named and released into the wild in honor of other fallen soldiers,” said Cecere.

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