We’d like to introduce you to Barbara Gemmell, manager of Operation PAL™. Barbara’s Marine son is now out of the Corps and in the IRR. He has not been recalled to active duty at this time. Barbara lives in Georgia and her now former-Marine son lives near.

Fulfilling the role of Operation PAL manager is a unique volunteer position with Marine Parents; one that can be difficult because it brings you very close to the fire and in touch with the raw emotion of a recovering Marine and his family.

It takes a strong and special person to contact family members of combat injured Marines. Barbara is that person, working tirelessly behind the scenes to get your cards and letters to our Marines and Corpsmen.

It is very rewarding and inspirational to hear first hand accounts of how strong the will of our Marines can be. These warriors will dig as deep into their well of fortitude as necessary to recover from injuries or regain functions lost. Many of these heroes must find the way to a new 'normal' when limbs cannot be saved, eyesight cannot be restored or skin cannot be repaired; all too often, while mourning the loss of fellow Marines.

We feel very fortunate to have Barbara as our Operation PAL™ Manager. Thank you Barbara for your dedication to the organization and to the healing of our Marines and Corpsmen!