Biography

     A graduate from Karns High School, after growing up in Knoxville most of her life, Tamara went on to Pellissippi State Community College to complete her Associate of Science degree. Not really being set on a career at this point, she decided to fulfill her desire to serve her community by attending Roane State Community College where she achieved her Emergency Medical Technician License. Going on to dedicate over 14+ years in the Emergency Services, she spent a good deal of time serving as a member, Vice President and Public Information Officer to the Karns Volunteer Fire Department. She has continued to serve in various other volunteer positions, including Vice President of her local HOA. With a heart for giving back, Tamara first became involved with the 278th as they prepared for their deployment in 2004. Awarded Honorary Member of Headquarters & Headquarters Troop Spt Sqdn, 278th ACR for her dedication and services in 2005. When asked to assist again in 2009, upon 278th active duty orders, she couldn’t say no. Once again finding herself with a drive to payback to soldier’s needs; she organized and held a very successful Pancake Breakfast to support the 278th soldiers. She received an Appreciation Award from the 278th Retirees Association in 2009 for her efforts. But, that wasn’t enough for Tamara. Seeing an ongoing need for support, she officially founded the Friends of the 278th January 2010 and remains very dedicated to supporting our military. When she’s not volunteering her time and energy, Tamara serves as a devoted wife to her husband, Bill, of almost 13 years; and a home schooling mother of four great kids, ages 14, 11, 9, and 7. Since September 2006 she has enjoyed being a business owner of a home-based candle business with Gold Canyon Candles, and is an entrepreneur by heart, with a focus of remaining at home for her children a top priority.

Why do you believe in the mission of the Friends of the 278th?

     I believe strongly in supporting our military, and paying back to them for their service and sacrifice in whatever ways we can. It's also important to me to lead my children by example in community work. It's imperative to me that they learn the importance of serving others and doing their part to make this world a better place.

Biography

     Business owner for 5 years, co-founded geekFoundry; Assistant Manager of a local Software Helpdesk for the past 7 years for a global financial institution; Married 10 yrs; father of two beautiful girls ages 6 and 2; while in school was in AFJROTC for 4 years and Civil Air Patrol for 1 year; lifeGroup leader, geekmaster, and the guy who gets called when technical stuff breaks at Maryville Vineyard Church

Why do you believe in the mission of the Friends of the 278th?

     While I did not pursue a military career for myself after school, I did have several friends and family members who have. Our soldiers put everything in their lives on hold to go and do a job that few would do. While they are away the last thing they need to worry about is how the bills are getting paid back home. The families that are left behind shouldn't have to do without just because their soldier is deployed on assignment. How wrong is it that a soldier could come home from serving a tour to find his utilities shut off or a vehicle not running because they can't afford to fix it. Friends of the 278th steps in and fills the gap where the government cannot. It's citizens stepping up and helping out their soldiers in order to thank them for their service and their sacrifice.