Tom Hanks Donates $25,000 to Camp Toccoa Project
By Charlie Bauder, WNEG Radio, Toccoa
The Camp Toccoa at Currahee project is getting some support from international super star Tom Hanks.
The Camp Toccoa at Currahee board announced recently, it received a $25,000 donation for the restoration of the camp from Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, through the actor’s foundation.
The Camp Toccoa at Currahee project is an effort to preserve and develop the original site of Camp Toccoa on Currahee Mountain, where the nation’s first paratroopers trained during World War II to drop behind enemy lines on D-Day.
Hanks had served as one of the executive producers on the “Band of Brothers” mini-series, which depicted the story of “Easy” company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, which trained at Camp Toccoa.
In an e-mail to Board President Robin Sink McClelland, Hanks said he cannot imagine a more fitting site to recreate and honor the men of the 506th as a refurbished Camp Toccoa. And he called it a stop for all history students no matter the age. Hanks also offered the use of his name in any and all efforts to raise funds.
McClelland said that the board is thrilled to have Hanks’ support in the project and the fundraising campaign. Hanks is the second famous person to announce their support for the Camp Toccoa project. Last month, retired General George Patraeus also volunteered his time and support of the effort.
For more information on the project, go to www.camptoccoaatcurrahee.com.