Military leaders, veterans, families of fallen heroes, inspired civilians, and corporate partners gathered on December 12th to celebrate all those who have served and who continue to serve a cause greater than themselves and, by doing so, inspire others through Travis Manion Foundation.

Actor Ryan Phillippe emceed the evening, presenting veterans, youth, and community partners with awards for their commitment to the “If Not Me, Then Who…” cause.

TMF was honored to recognize Boeing for the 2019 Community Leadership Award. They announced that Boeing will be funding the Spartan Leadership Program, launching in 2020, focusing on building powerful veteran leaders in our community.

Adam Dumont, a Gold Star sibling and high school student, received the 2019 Character Does Matter Scholarship, sponsored by PNC. Adam has been inspired and empowered by the example his brother, Sgt. Paul Dumont, Jr., set for him and intends to live the “If Not Me, Then Who…” ethos just as his brother did. Adam plans to use the scholarship to train to better serve others, specifically those who are disadvantaged.

TMF also honored Jason McCarthy, founder of GORUCK, with the 2019 “If Not Me, Then Who…” Award. Jason enlisted in the Army after 9/11, went on to earn the Green Beret, and returned home to bring the principles of purpose, service, and camaraderie to his rucking company. He created an organization that is about coming together with others, challenging yourself to push harder than you thought possible, and looking outside yourself to support the needs of others--all values held by TMF as well.

Distinguished guest Lieutenant General James Pasquarette delivered a powerful speech recounting the inspiring tale of Col. Rick Rescorla, US Army, who embodied the “If Not Me, Then Who…” ethos throughout his years of service including when he gave the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11. He praised the work TMF Spartans do every day and shared how reading The Knock at the Door moved him to share the message of hope beyond grief.