Congratulations to our 2017 Taoiseach honoree and Ambassador Club Member, Eileen McDonnell, who will receive the The Ben Franklin Global Forum’s Distinguished Civilian Award for her pioneering work in helping launch The American College Penn Mutual Center for Veterans Affairs. To date the Center has awarded over 450 scholarships to active duty military, veterans and their spouses.
Eileen will be honored on December 7th, the eve of the Army Navy Football Game in Philadelphia. Each year, The Ben Franklin Global Forum recognizes one Soldier and one Sailor from the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) for their courageous and exemplary service to the defense of our nation. This year’s keynote speaker with be General Raymond A. “Tony” Thomas, Commander, U.S. Special Operations Command.
As part of this year’s weekend celebration and for the first time, the Forum, in conjunction with its partners has purchased 70 tickets to the Army Navy Game for use by Gold Star Wives and Gold Star Families. These Gold Stars will enjoy a two-night stay in Washington, DC with a Saturday trip to Philadelphia aboard the Ben Franklin Gold Star Limited—a special Amtrak rail car devoted exclusively for their use. Upon arrival in Philadelphia an executive bus will be waiting to transport them with a police escort to and from Lincoln Financial Field, arriving at the stadium to a military welcome.
Upon return to DC, they will spend the next morning visiting Arlington National Cemetery to pay respects to our Fallen Heroes. Afterwards it’s back to their homes where they can savor the memories of a very special weekend.
Please join and consider making a tax deductible donation to the Ben Franklin Global Forum in support of their efforts and its Gold Star Program.
Donations can be sent to:
Ben Franklin Global Forum 45 East City Avenue, Suite 436, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19044 Tax Id: 20-1260364
