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Jack with Astro's Manager Phil Garner                                               Jack and Iraq veteran JR Martinez

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Oct. 16th 2007 - Jack Pedals to Honor mettle of those in uniform - By T.J. Simers, L.A. Times

July 11 , 2007
Please take a look at the following information regarding a major fundraising program to help the injured troops and their families. There is a major press conference on July 11. There are many ways for anyone to help. Join Emmy nominated actor Jack Scalia as he raises awareness and funding for the severely injured troops from Iraq and Afghanistan. During Operation American Spirit's inaugural event beginning September 22, Scalia will ride his bike from Seattle to San Diego on a 16-day 1500-mile journey. Scalia hopes to inspire others to get involved and help. Individuals/Corporations will be able to collect pledges and ride with Jack, there will be fundraising events in cities along the route, and an on-line auction with many items donated, even the chance to win Jack's bike.

"Our nation has asked our troops and their families to make sacrifices and they have... now it is our turn, as Americans, to step up and help them when they need it."  Jack Scalia

Operation American Spirit hopes to raise up to $50 million dollars over the next few years. Our mission is to help make a difference in the lives of American Heroes and their families by providing support and funding during and after rehabilitation including ongoing programs, mentoring, scholarships, job and trade assistance, home modification, and activities and outings to improve moral.
Among those who will be on hand to support Jack beginning with a kick off press event in L.A. on July 11 are Edra Blixseth, who organized major fundraisers for 9-11 families and Katrina victims raising more than $175 million total, soldiers Mike McNaughton, Ryan Kelly, and Heath Calhoun.

Other notable names expected to lend their support to the cause include the Honorable Jack Kemp, Gary Sinise, Kurt Russell, Jon Voight, Mariel Hemingway, Tommy Lasorda, Mike Vogel, James Cromwell, Mary Bono, Olympic gold medalist Quincy Watts and soldiers Melissa Stockwell, BJ Jackson, JR Martinez, and Jorge DeLeon.

The American Spirit Fund has been established through the Fitness Challenge Foundation (501C3) to provide for the needs of military members and their families who have suffered significant injuries as a result of combat.
The Fitness Challenge Foundation is teaming up with Jack because mobility is key to the quality of one's life. It is essential to the mental and physical fitness and health of any individual.