BLUE BELL, Pa. (June 18, 2009) – Tom Manion, who retired from the United States Marine Corps with a rank of colonel and suffered the loss of his son, Travis, in action in Iraq, will be the guest speaker at the 3rd Armed Forces Appreciation Day at Meadowlands CC on Monday, June 22.
Manion, who spent 11 years in active duty and 19 years in the reserves, has been an active and outspoken supporter of the men and women in uniform. A graduate of Lower Merion High and Widener University, he ran for United States Congress in Bucks County as a Republican in 2008. He was defeated by Democratic candidate Patrick Murphy. He is currently employed by Johnson and Johnson as vice-president in the pharmaceutical group and lives in Doylestown.
His son, Travis, also was serving as a lieutenant in the Marine Corps when he was killed in action in Iraq in April of 2007. In December of 2008 he was awarded posthumously the Silver Star for valor. Since his death the Manion family and friends have established the Travis Manion Foundation.
“The foundation in Travis’ name partners with T.A.P.S., the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors,” explained Manion. “The purpose is to provide support for the families of the fallen and help wounded when they come back and adjust to the civilian environment. In just a short time we have raised some significant money and made a good impact.”
More information about the foundation can be found at www.travismanion.com.
Armed Forces Appreciation Day on Monday, June 22 will be the third time members from Meadowlands CC have opened their doors to returning veterans from the military campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan. The event is run in cooperation with the Willow Grove Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base.
With members and volunteers from the staff providing all services — from unloading bags, greeting and directing the guests, and serving as forecaddies, to flipping hamburgers and dishing out potato salad — the event has become a source of enormous pride and gratification for the club.
“There is no greater sacrifice, nor nobler duty than to serve your country,” stresses Meadowlands CC president Gilbert Benjamin. “We feel this is the least we can do to say thanks to our men and women in uniform.”
Businesses from around the community also join with Meadowlands for this day of gratitude, contributing prizes and gifts. Aside from golf, families of the military are invited to enjoy the Meadowlands pool and tennis facilities, as well as joining the servicemen and women for lunch after golf
For more information about Armed Forces Appreciation Day, contact Meadowlands general manager Ira Berkowitz at 215-646-2300.
Contact:
TL Golf Services
610-279-9220
