May 28, 2012, 2 PM

Dear Members and Friends, 

Chris Hayes of MSNBC said this weekend that he's "uncomfortable" calling fallen military "heroes."                                                                                      Chris Hayes on MSNBC
  

As we commemorate Memorial Day 2012, let's show Chris Hayes and MSNBC that we not only remember those heroes who fought and died for America over its 235 year plus history -- but that we support local organizations that are committed to keeping the memory of our fallen heroes alive and well -- 365 days a year. 

We seek to honor two such organizations by holding a Memorial Day Money Drop to assist them in sustaining their respective missions.

In 2012, both the American Sheepdogs and the Travis Manion Foundation will reach their five year milestones within several months of each other.

               Sheepdog Rally, September, 2011                     Travis Manion in Iraq before His Heroic Death

On every consecutive Saturday since the first week of September, 2007, the American sheepdogs, under the direction of Rich Davis, have rallied at the West Chester County Courthouse in support of our troops. 

In a similar vein, The Travis Manion Foundation (Doylestown), founded by Janet Manion shortly after her only son, 1st Lt. Travis Manion, was killed in Iraq (April 29, 2007), has inspired so many with its theme -- taken from a quote uttered by Lt. Manion just prior to his fateful deployment -- "If not me, then who..." 

The Foundation has a threefold program: Honor the Fallen; Character Does Matter; 911 Heroes Run.

(Last month, we sadly reported on the death of Janet Manion who had succumbed to cancer on April 24, 2012 -- almost five years to the day of her son's heroic death.)

During our 48 hour Money Drop, we hope to raise at least $1000 to assist these worthy organizations.  The money collected will be divided equally and then sent directly to the organizations. 

If you would be willing to make a $5 or $10 donation towards our goal, we would be most appreciative.  We will provide you with timely updates on our progress.

God Bless all of you, our fallen heroes and their families, and the entire military who have served, or are currently serving, our great nation.

On behalf of the Association Board of Directors,

Teri Adams