Towson, Md. – Towson University has partnered with the Maryland National Guard for "Operation Guardian Tiger" - a plan to "adopt" two National Guard units and provide on-going support for deployed soldiers and their families for the next 12 months.

“The National Guard has a unique connection to the communities it serves and this initiative will help recognize the sacrifice of the soldiers and their families,“ said Patrick Young Jr., coordinator for veterans services at Towson University.

“My own experiences in Iraq while serving with the United States Marine Corps have given me an appreciation for the importance of knowing your loved ones are taken care of while deployed.”

Operation Guardian Tiger will work closely with the 200th and 290th Military Police Companies from Parkville, Md. and Catonsville Md. respectively. Both units have been deployed to Afghanistan.

Towson University Athletics will host several events in 2013 for the families of the deployed soldiers, including admission to select football, basketball and lacrosse games. On July 27, the soldiers' families will participate in a Family Fun Day sports clinic at the new Tiger Arena. Throughout the 2013-14 school year, students will have the opportunity to prepare care packages to be sent overseas to the soldiers.  

“Over the last three years Towson Athletics has made it a departmental priority to support our troops and their families at various events and we are excited about this new engagement with Operation Guardian Tiger,” said Mike Waddell, Towson University Director of Athletics.

“To have the chance to pair our TU student-athletes with US military veterans is a fantastic leadership opportunity, which will enhance our young people's development as Total Tigers while also building a bridge with special Americans and their families.”

Operation Guardian Tiger is part of Towson University's strong, continuing commitment to serving veterans. The university was named to the 2013 G.I. Jobs' list of military-friendly schools for its works with service members, veterans and spouses.

“It is a privilege to give back to the veterans and military families of Maryland that have admirably served our country,” said Towson University President Maravene Loeschke. “The Operation Guardian Tigers program speaks volumes about what Towson University stands for and level of support we seek to provide veteran students and the greater community.”

For more information on Operation Guardian Tiger, please contact Patrick Young at 410-704-2991 or pyoung@towson.edu.