Wilmington, NC – HeartsApart.org, an organization created to keep families connected while military men and women are serving abroad, has officially reached the Philadelphia area.
Area photographer Fred Troilo of Fred Troilo Photography located in Springfield will be providing one of the first free of charge photo session for local military families on Saturday, May 14.
HeartsApart.org provides soon-to-be-deployed servicemen and women with pictures of their spouse and children by matching families with professional photographers across the country. The photographs are printed on waterproof, bi-folded vinyl cards which fit securely in soldier's uniform pockets. Families should visit http://www.heartsapart.org/ for information on how to participate.
"When I first heard about HeartsApart.org, I thought, 'What an incredible idea.' I knew it would be an honor for me to create memories for soldiers who have sacrificed so much. For me, it’s a very small way to say thank you," said Troilo.
Troilo has been in the business of capturing memories on film for nearly 30 years. A graduate of the Art Institute of Philadelphia, he spent 18 seasons as a team photographer for the Philadelphia Eagles and also covered the Phillies and Flyers, according to a press release from
HeartsApart.org. He recently worked on an assignment for the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, meeting and photographing the Apollo 11 crew, according to
HeartsApart.org.
Founded in North Carolina, HeartsApart.org now includes photographers across the country. "Our goal is simple. As long as servicemen and women are in harms way and separated from their families, we will be taking pictures," said Brett Martin, Executive Director.
"There is no end to the project - just a commitment to continue to serve our Armed Forces while they serve us."
The non-profit has been operating since the summer of 2010. Martin said, "This project is too big for anyone to take on alone. Without the help of sponsors, volunteers and donations, this would be impossible. We all owe it to our troops to get involved."
HeartsApart.org asks that photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists, wardrobe stylists and most importantly local financial donors and sponsors join the cause. Donations can be made at http://www.heartsapart.org/.
Most importantly, families of soon to be deployed Armed Forces are invited to visit the website and schedule their family portrait.