Ms. Carroll founded TAPS in 1992 following the death of her husband Brigadier General Tom Carroll in an Army C-12 plane crash.   Since then, TAPS has become the frontline resource for those who are grieving a loved one who died while serving our Nation.  Go to www.taps.org for a full view of all TAPS services.

 The MCA National Citizenship Award recognizes  exemplary public service with exceptional leadership integrity and enduring commitment to the spiritual welfare of our Nation’s Warriors and their families.  It was first given to Astronaut John Glenn during the 1962 MCA Annual Meeting in Colorado Springs, CO.  Recipients since then include leaders from industry, entertainment, religious faith groups, government, and the military.

The Honorable Gordon H. Mansfield, former Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs receives the award during the MCA 2009 National Institute.   With Secretary Mansfield are (L to R) Chaplains Laurie O’Reilly, Julianna Lesher, and Linda Leibhart.