Janet Manion, supporter of veterans, dies at 58

Janet Manion, 58, of Doylestown, who dedicated herself to helping soldiers, veterans, and their families after her son was killed in Iraq, died Tuesday, April 24, after a yearlong battle with cancer.

"Someday I'll see him again," Ms. Manion said recently of her son, Marine First Lt. Travis Manion, killed in 2007 by sniper fire in Fallujah.

She established the Travis Manion Foundation, inspired by his message before his final tour: "America needs to know what these brave men and women are doing over here, and I don't think that they know."

She was "an incredibly selfless person who, following the death of her son, stayed in the forefront to support our troops, veterans, military families and the families of fallen heroes," said Tom Sileo, communications director for the foundation.

Ms. Manion filled a void by helping "young returning guys and their families," said Dan Fraley, director of veterans affairs in Bucks County.

"She was an amazing lady. When she got on an issue, she stayed on it till it was completed," he said.

The foundation, which raised $2.96 million last year, "has grown so big in a short period of time," Fraley said. "It's a nationwide foundation, and she was the strength behind it."

In addition to the foundation, she helped create three programs. "Honor the Fallen" awards grants to survivors, active-duty military, and others for service projects that will perpetuate the legacy of members of the military who have died. "Character Does Matter" uses motivational speakers to promote leadership and courage. The "9/11 Heroes Run" helps communities remember, honor, and support those lost in the terrorist attacks.

Based on her work, Ms. Manion was one of 20 finalists for this year's Citizens Service Before Self honor, awarded by the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation for bravery, courage, and a commitment to service.

Ms. Manion is survived by her husband, retired Marine Corps Reserve Col. Thomas E. Manion; daughter Ryan Manion Borek; two brothers; a sister; and two granddaughters. Viewings will be Friday, April 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Reed & Steinbach Funeral Home, 2335 Lower State Rd., Doylestown, and Saturday, April 28, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, 235 E. State St., Doylestown, where a Funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m.

Interment will be later.

Contributions may be made to the Travis Manion Foundation, Box 1485, Doylestown, Pa. 18901, or through www.travismanion.com.

Contact staff writer Bill Reed at 215-801-2964 or wreed@philly.com, or follow @breedbucks on Twitter. Read his blog, "BucksInq," at www.philly.com/bucksinq.