Operation Tribute distributed over 2,500 gifts to the children of military families living in New York and New Jersey in 2009 and over 25,000 throughout New England.  Operation Tribute pays tribute to the children of military families living in New England, New York and New Jersey by providing them with a gift during the holiday season.  To volunteer or make a contribution, please contact Operaton Tribute  at (207)221-0296 or at Sponsorship@OperationTribute.com.

The Gorham High School Key Club of Gorham, Maine presented a check for $16,500 to Operation Tribute surpassing their prior year donation of $10,000!  Key Club Chairperson Jason Badeau stated “Key Club is an organization that promotes community service.  Our club developed a very strong relationship with Operation Tribute given its purpose of paying tribute to the children of military families.  Recognizing the bravery and patriotism of these children is long over-due and Operation Tribute is a wonderful way to show our support for the sacrifice that these children make.”  The Gorham High School Key Club raised the money by hosting a Santa pancake breakfast and silent auction with help from area businesses as well as by contacting other New England Key Clubs to ask for their support.  Badeau noted “It was hard work but knowing that we would be making the holiday season brighter for these kids made it all worthwhile.  It also helped us to form friendships with other Key Clubs throughout New England that we hope will continue for many years to come.”  When asked what the Gorham High School Key Club goal was for 2010, he replied “ We would love to raise at least $20,000 for this great program in 2010 – more if possible.  We don’t want any child that requests a gift refused one because of a lack of money.”   Given the Gorham High School Key Club’s enthusiasm, it certainly appears as though they will reach their goal!  If anyone is interested in helping to support the Key Club’s efforts, you can contact Jason at Sponsorship@OperationTribute.com.

Marc Badeau, Chairman of Operation Tribute, stated “We are honored to have one of the premier coastal Maine resorts sponsor Operation Tribute.  Mr. Russell clearly understands the sacrifices made daily by the children of military families and has generously proven the Samoset Resort’s commitment to them.”

For over a century, The Samoset Resort has been considered the premier coastal resort location in Maine, renowned for spectacular and expansive views of Penobscot Bay and distant islands, with the soft Camden Hills rising to the east, and the spacious grounds of Jameson Point to the west. The Samoset Resort’s history is full of people having come to Maine specifically to enjoy this beauty.  The Samoset Resort has emerged as a year-round golf vacation destination and conference center for people from all over the world. The coastal Maine resort offers something for everyone in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.  For more information about The Samoset Resort, visit their website at www.samosetresort.com.

US Family Heath Plan is a TRICARE Prime option offering an excellent program of health care coverage built on a sound mission and unsurpassed commitment to its members. US Family Health Plan is the only TRICARE Prime program that offers benefits to active duty family members and all military retirees and their eligible family members, including those 65 years of age and over, regardless of whether or not they participate in Medicare Part B.

Marc Badeau, Chariman of Operation Tribute, stated that “US Family Health Plan’s contribution to our program demonstates its recognition of its importance to the welfare of the children of military families.  We are extremely grateful for their support and welcome them as a corporate sponsor.”  David Chicoine, Vice President and Executive Director of US Family Health Plan stated, “Supporting the children of military families through Operation Tribute is a logical extension of US Family Health Plan’s commitment to care for our uniformed service families.”

A total of $650,000 was raised compared to $200,000 last year with help from corporate sponsors like the New York Giants, the NHL and Wal-Mart to name a few. Gorham High School’s Key Club raised $10,000 for OHC through fundraisers in their first year as a club.

“Of every dollar raised, 99.9 percent went to the gift,” said Badeau. “We have virtually no administrative costs other than a monthly phone bill. It is all volunteer-based.”

The program strarted as a Kiwanis group but due to its continued growth, it will become its own non-profit group this coming year and the name will change to Operation Tribute. It will still encompass OHC but will also be a program for families of fallen soldiers to recognize them and help them out as well. The goal is to expand Operation Tribute nationally.

Article by Andrea Morrell, published Feb 20, 2009, Gorham Times

US Congressional Record

Joint Resolution of the Senate and House of Representatives