On July 27, Operation Homefront held a special Media Night at Maggianos at the Rim. It was their way of saying thank you toall print and television journalists for helping them spread the word about theirefforts.
I was impressed by a young lady from San Antonio who went to Hawaii on vacation. While Amanda Shaunessy was there, she learned about Operation Homefront.
She had been trying to find a place to volunteer, and was shocked to learn the Operation Homefront was based in her hometown! San Antonio is the national headquarters for the non-profit agency.
I first learned about Operation Homefront after the Fort Hood Massacre. The agency assisted families of the killed and injured.
I quickly learned that the agency also assists military families who may be down on their luck and need extra help to pay their light bills or put presents under the Christmas tree.
The recession affects everyone, including our military men and women. Anytime their is a natural disaster like a hurricane, Operation Homefront also steps in to help those military families get back on their feet.
Bobby Henline is a wounded warrior who has found recent success with his witty comedy routines. He recently performed at Brooke Army Medical Center.
I wish I had known about Operation Homefront back in my day, he told the crowd at the media dinner. I've done four tours in Iraq and I never knew about it. So I want the next man to know. I will help to spread awareness.
He said Operation Homefront helped him build anew screen porch on his back patio so that he can enjoy the outdoors. Hesuffered burns while serving in thewar.
It's a need a lot of burn patients can use, Henline said.
Henline is also impressed with how the agencyspends it's donations.
Ninety-six cents of every dollargoes towards militaryfamilies inneed, Henline said. That's amazing.
To learn how you can help or to help spread awareness, go to www.operationhomefrontonline.com
Special thanks to Curtis Beauchamp, chairman; Jennifer Cernoch, president; and Amy Palmer, CEO; for the media night.
