Gold Star Families attend premier of An American Carol

These days, laughter and smiles come less often. For those of us that have lost our loved ones in the war on terror, we wake each morning to lives that will never be whole again. We find comfort in those that understand and appreciate our soldier's sacrifice. There are however, those that use their voices in Hollywood or in the media to downplay our military and our fallen soldiers. They are not in the majority, yet they have access to venues and speaking opportunities that our families don't.

An American Carol gave our Gold Star Families the opportunity to laugh for an evening, as it spoofed Hollywood and the dissenting voices that have hurt our families and those that now serve.

When we received the invitation from Mpower Productions through Families United For Our Troops to view the screening, were were delighted. The screening was held in Hollywood and we had the opportunity to meet other Gold Star Families from California. It was such an honor to meet and thank Kelsey Grammer and Kevin Farley for their roles in the movie. I glanced several times at the other family members, and they were all smiling and laughing with us. This is the first time I have laughed until I cried in almost four years.

I have recommended this film to our friends and family. We wish to thank the staff, cast and crew for a wonderful and memorable evening and for a job well done.

Deb, Proud mom of Capt. Derek Argel, KIA Memorial Day, 2005

Debbie Argel-Bastian

For the children of our heroes:
(Capt. Argel Memorial Ride)
www.firstgiving.com/DebbieArgel

10 Great Ways to Share Your Voice in Support of

Our Troops AND Their Mission

It’s Red Shirt Friday

1. It’s Red Shirt Friday – Wear your red shirt or patriotic shirt today! Stand out from the crowd!

2. Fly your flag! (Of course we know you fly your flag everyday – check to make sure it’s not frayed – I’m replacing my Support Your Troops flag today!)

3. Write an opinion piece to your local newspaper.

4. Call or visit your Congressman’s local office and tell them about your hero and why it’s important for him/her to support the mission of our heroes in harms way.

5. Buy a veteran a cup of coffee – or maybe even lunch.

6. Write to Families United and tell us about your hero. Whether currently deployed, previously deployed, fallen hero, or serving stateside or around the world, they are all part of America’s team and we’d love to share their stories. Send stories to: heroes.familiesunited@gmail.com

Check out our affiliated advocacy organization, Military Families United, and find out more ways you can support our troops!

7. Call/Talk to the family of a hero and thank them – you know, the one you’ve been meaning to speak with – today’s the day!

8. Go to the movies tonight! An American Carol is premiering across the country. This is one of the first Support Your Troops movies to be made during the War on Terror! The cast and crew firmly support our Troops – they are part of our team! Jon Voight, Kelsey Grammar and Kevin Farley have stepped out of the comfort zone in liberal Hollywood to make a movie that supports true American values – defending and protecting our freedom and the men and women who risk everything to do so. Let’s share our voice by attending this very funny movie.

· Click here to see a funny extended scene from ‘An American Carol’.

· Click here for theater listings near you.

9. Invite 10 friends to attend An American Carol!

10. After the movie – tell 10 more friends about An American Carol and that it is a “Must See”

Start a Families United State Chapter