Several weeks ago was Gold Star Mother's Day, a day our country honors our fallen heroes and their mothers, who bear the weight of losing a child in service to our country. These mothers have channeled their losses as a catalyst for self-improvement and civic engagement in a way that is truly inspiring. I had a chance to interview Rhonda Worthington - Mother of fallen Navy SEAL Eric Shellengberger has channeled her son's message into service. She has partnered with the Travis Manion Foundation to help build homes in impoverished areas of Guatemala alongside other families of a fallen loved ones.
What support is there for Gold Star Mothers?
Support for Gold Star Mothers starts with their Casualty Assistance Officer. Such programs as Gold Star Navy Program, Outreach Survivors Programs, depending on the branch of Service. Also, TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Programs for Survivors) , The Travis Manion Foundation, and Amerian Gold Star Mothers. Also, the hope is, there is the courage and strength to ask for help....
What specifically does the Travis Minion Foundation do?
The Travis Manion Foundation joins Veterans and Families of the Fallen with various service projects, local and out of the country. Thus, Honoring our Fallen while challenging the living. Veterans and Survivors meet and work together where the most need is, creating much need healing and unity.
Can you share a little bit about your involvement with the foundation?
I have proudly served with Travis Manion on various projects in and out of the country. Worked hand to hand with amazing family survivors at local shelters, built homes for the homeless, repaired Veterans homes and many others. All involved have a common bond, work hard, and have a deep feeling of accomplishment in our loved ones memory. Many stories are shared and treasured.
Why is it so important for mothers to honor their fallen children with action?
In my case, it is our Mission. I am a member of American Gold Star Mothers, North Penn Chapter. Our mission, honoring the memory of our Children through service by working to serve Veterans and their families, active duty Military and their families, our communities with the strength in the fellowship of other gold star mother. Travis Manion stands tall and supports us with our Mission.
Another mom, Phyllis McGeath, mother of fallen Marine Cpl. Phillip McGeath, carried on her son's dream of finishing college. She graduated last year and has since begun mentoring other mother's of fallen heroes to use the memories of their children to better themselves and be active member of their communities.
The Travis Manion Foundation empowers veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations. In 2007, 1st Lt Travis Manion (USMC) was killed in Iraq while saving his wounded teammates. Today, Travis' legacy lives on in the words he spoke before leaving for his final deployment, "If Not Me, Then Who..." Guided by this mantra, veterans and survivors continue their service, develop strong relationships with their communities, and thrive in their post-military lives. As a result, communities prosper and the character of our nation's heroes live on in the next generation.
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