Please keep checking back to see our list expand as more invited celebrities are confirmed and added! We welcome our new celebrities to the TAPS family and extend our sincerest thanks to our returning friends! Your support for TAPS through the generous donation of your time and talent is overwhelming!
Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers
Legendary Musical Trio and our Event Hosts
As icons of country music, the Gatlin Brothers are known for such signature hits as Houston, Broken Lady and All The Gold In California, and we are delighted to have them as our event hosts! There's no harmony quite as pure as family harmony, and their four-decade career has taken the Gatlin Brothers from dusty Texas stages to White House performances, from Broadway to Grammy Awards to the top of the country charts. Returning to the country music scene with the recent release of their latest album, The Pilgrimage, the Gatlin Brothers are back with new sounds, timeless classics and their distinctive talent to electrify the stage! Dubbed by Larry as 'The Gatlin Brothers Never Ending Reunion Tour', the Gatlin Brothers are captivating audiences across the country and appearing on national television shows such as Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Early Show, Hannity, Imus in the Morning and America's Nightly Scoreboard.
Clearly the trio's creative inspiration, Larry's exceptional songwriting talent has made the group unique. Of all the Gatlin's Top-40 country songs on their albums, except for gospel songs, only two were not penned by Larry. Raised on gospel music, the brothers first began entertaining audiences when they were 2, 4, and 6 years old. In 1976 they recorded Broken Lady which became a #1 hit and winning the Grammy for 'Best Country Song' and they were inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. 1977's High Time featured the #1 hit I Just Wish You Were Someone I Love. The success of this album encouraged the brothers to become an official trio in 1979, and they recorded that year's number one smash hit All the Gold in California, which received The Academy of Country Music (ACM) 'Single of the Year' award and they were also awarded ACMs 'Album of the Year' for Straight Ahead.
After joining forces the Gatlin Brothers' success continued as they recorded hit after hit. With another number one hit in 1983, Houston (Means I'm One Day Closer to You), they had nine more Top-10 hits and more than a dozen Top-40 hits, including Denver, Midnight Choir (Mogen David), She Used To Be Somebody's Baby, I Don't Want To Cry, Statues Without Hearts, What Are We Doing Lonesome, I've Done Enough Dyin' Today, Take Me To Your Lovin' Place, Night Time Magic, Love Is Just A Game, The Lady Takes The Cowboy Every Time, and Talkin' To The Moon.
After touring extensively throughout the United States and internationally playing packed concert halls, the group went into semi-retirement 1991. Relocating to Branson in 1993, they ran their own theater and began performing regularly. 2004 saw the release of their albums Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers Sing Their Family Gospel Favorites, that was nominated for a Grammy, and Live At Billy Bob's Texas. While Larry, Steve, and Rudy continue to perform a schedule of concerts as Larry Gatlin and the Brothers, each has pursued their own individual course as successful artists, businessmen and motivational speakers. To say that the Gatlin Brothers enjoy golf is a huge understatement! Involved with numerous charity golf events over the years, they are all phenomenal golfers. Currently Rudy ranks #1, closely followed by Steve at #7 and Larry at #8 in Golf Digest's 'Top 100 Players in Music' listing compiled every two years.
Larry Gatlin
Prior to forming and leading the family trio, Larry enjoyed an extremely successful solo career. In the early 70's, he moved to Nashville and on the strength of his songwriting talents and exceptional vocal ability, Larry soon became known throughout Nashville music Industry, writing songs that would be recorded by names like Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Barbara Streisand, Tom Jones, and yes, Elvis Presley. The release of his album The Pilgrim in 1974 landed Larry his first hit with Sweet Becky Walker. In 1979 he was voted the 'Top Male Vocalist of the Year' by the Academy of Country Music. As one of country's most successful songwriters, of the 42 songs he charted between 1973 and 1990, including 17 Top-10s and the Grammy-winning Broken Lady, he single-handedly wrote every one, an achievement unmatched by any other artist in popular music. Larry's acting career began in 1991 when he made his Broadway debut as lead in the splashy, Tony award winning Will Rogers Follies and later he stared in the Broadway musical The Civil War. He also wrote and scored several musicals including Alive and Well, Texas Flyer and Look Homeward Honky Tonk Angel. Larry played himself in Big Dreams and Broken Hearts: The Dottie West Story and appeared in the movies To Die, To Sleep and Outlaws: The Legend of O. B. Taggart. In 1998, Larry released the solo gospel album In My Life, as well as a book, the memoir All the Gold in California, Beginning in 1993, he spent part of four successive Christmas holidays entertaining military personnel via USO tours and in 1999 Larry toured and entertained troops of the 1st CAV division in Bosnia. Larry is involved with the launching of the new Gospel Music Channel and is currently hosting the Opry Country Classics show in Nashville.
Steve Gatlin
After graduating from college in 1973, Steve taught in the Lubbock Independent School system and married his wife Cynthia who was also a teacher. However, in 1975, soon after Tammy Wynette made an appearance with his younger sister LaDonna and brother Rudy in Lubbock and asked Steve to sing with them, he and his wife were packing their bags to move to Nashville and work for Tammy. Soon after this, the three brothers recorded their Grammy winning hit Broken Lady, became an official trio and began touring together. Steve took on many daily responsibilities for the group, coordinating tours, recording schedules, interview requests as well as singing and playing bass. He has also produced 3 Christmas CD's for the Brothers, the latest release in 2002. On his own Steve has done 3 major production shows, recorded 2 CD's, one big band swing, one Gospel, and a children's CD soon to be released. He enjoys speaking at churches and various events sharing his life experiences.
Rudy Gatlin
Rudy was just two and a half when big brother Larry, age six, convinced their mother he was ready to join him and Steve, age four. Winning a talent show in Abilene, they started singing in church, on radio and the Slim Willet Show on KRBC-TV. While the group was on hiatus, Rudy performed solo and also starred in the role of 'Curly' in Oklahoma, and the part of 'Frank Butler' in Annie Get Your Gun in Branson productions. As a sought after motivational speaker, Rudy shares his personal experiences as an entertainer, inspiring and motivating people with his unique talent and message that challenges his listeners to reach their full potential and also to recognize the opportunities to help others in their everyday lives. He speaks at various corporate events, associations and civic organizations, enthralling audiences nationwide. Golf is definitely Rudy's game and he feels privileged to play on some of the best courses around the country as he competes on the Celebrity Players Tour (CPT).
Ralph Achilles
Comedian, Singer, Songwriter, Author
Known as the 'King of the Cruise Ships', Ralph enjoys entertaining and traveling worldwide. His first performing act, Achilles and Frank, enjoyed two national hits, The Two Peddler Men and As We Do Today, both written by Ralph, and appeared on The Joey Bishop Show. The duo added a lady to the act and became the F.A.B. Company whose first hit recording Watermelon Is A King's Delight was written by Ralph and launched the group as a top college draw. F.A.B. Company recorded four extremely successful albums before disbanding in 1982. At that time Ralph developed into a stand-up comic. Although he still peppers his act with his own songs, he has recorded three albums of comedy. Ralph has had his own television special, On Stage with Achilles, and has headlined in nightclubs and major venues throughout his career. Ralph is also an accomplished author.
Donny Anderson
Former NFL Running Back
A first round draft pick of the Green Bay Packers in 1965, Donny played nine years in the NFL, six with Green Bay as #44 under the legendary Coach Vince Lombardi and his final three for the St. Louis Cardinals. While playing with the Packers, Donny originated the concept of hang time in punting, played in the Pro-Bowl and helped his team win two Super Bowl Championships. A Texas native, Donny is the first and only consensus All-American at Texas Tech University, receiving All-American honors twice, and he was inducted into both the Texas Tech and College Football Halls of Fame. Nine of his football records there still stand and he earned the nickname The Golden Palomino. In 1996 Donny co-wrote Winners for Life, a goal setting guide for teenagers. With the success of this book, in 2001 Donny started the Winners for Life Foundation to provide college scholarships to motivated, at-risk teens throughout the United States.
John Ashton
Actor
An award winning performer, John has appeared in over 100 stage, screen and television productions, but may be best known for his role as 'Sergeant Taggart' in both Beverly Hill Cop I and II. Other credits include films such as Midnight Run, She's Having a Baby, Instinct, Breaking Away, and he recently played a Boston detective in Gone, Baby, Gone directed by Ben Affleck. A burley, mustachioed character actor frequently cast as a law enforcement agent or villainous heavy, John also starred in his own NBC series Hardball, and has appeared in hits such as Dallas, Judging Amy, and JAG. Other notable roles include the change of pace turns as a worried father of a kidnapped child in I Know My First Name Is Steven and as the parent of a gymnast in Little Girls in Pretty Boxes.
Greg Barnhill
Songwriter, Performer, Producer
Last year Greg was so moved by our event that he wrote a special song titled Soldier On honoring our brave military warriors and is dedicating its proceeds to TAPS! Greg's energy, passion and drive have endeared him to his peers and to anyone who watches him perform. Greg's talent is showcased on his songwriter album No Chaser and recently released CD, Dinner Music with Greg Barnhill. With dozens of hit songs including Grammy nominated Walkaway Joe, recorded by Trisha Yearwood and Don Henley, and That Kinda Day by Sarah Buxton, Greg is a prolific songwriter. He has also written many TV themes including the 2007 Emmy nominated new theme song for NBC's Today Show. Nicknamed 'Mr. Christmas' for his ability to write new holiday songs that sound like true classics, his album Christmas Gumbo has 14 all new holiday songs. Always in high demand as a writer and performer, he travels around the country to work with acclaimed songwriters and artists.
Johnny Bench
Cincinnati Red Major League Baseball Hall of Famer and All Century Catcher
Signing with the Cincinnati Reds in the 1965, Johnny made Cincinnati's Major League roster for the 1968 season. This marked the beginning of one of the most successful careers in baseball history. Elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in January 1989, Johnny Bench is undoubtedly the greatest catcher ever as stated by the Sporting News in 1998, in which Johnny was named the 16th greatest player of all time. His successes include National League Rookie of the Year (1968), National League Most Valuable Players (1970 & 1972), World Series MVP (1976), 14-time All-Star, and 10 Gold Gloves. In 1980, Johnny set an endurance record by catching 100 or more games for 13 consecutive seasons. Then, in 1999, Johnny received baseball's esteemed honor of selection to the All-Century Team. Johnny's national broadcasting career includes nine years with CBS Radio broadcasting the National Game of the Week, the All-Star Game, the League Championship Series and the World Series as well as play-by-play on Reds' television. Johnny has logged thousands of hours in personal appearance on television networks such as ESPN, and Fox Sports in addition to participating in events such as touring with Bob Hope's Christmas Shows, and visiting the troops during Desert Storm. Besides the Johnny Bench Scholarship Fund, which provides funds for students to attend college in the Cincinnati area, Johnny uses his celebrity status to aid such worthy causes as the Heart Association, the American Cancer Society (as past National Chairman of Athletes vs. Cancer), the Kidney Foundation, Franciscan Sisters of Poor Health System, the American Lung Association, and the 'Catch the Cure' program of the Children's Hospital of Cincinnati.
Jim Benemann
Denver CBS4 News Anchor
An Emmy Award winning journalist, Jim anchors the weekday 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. news on Denver's CBS4. An outstanding journalist and an exceptional communicator, Jim's passion for his work and his commitment to this community make him one of the most respected broadcasters in Colorado. Jim's anchoring and reporting background has included major assignments on local, national and international stories. He attended Colorado State University, earning a degree in broadcasting in 1978, and he established a broadcasting bureau in Washington D.C., where he covered Capitol Hill, political campaigns and sent home reports from Cuba, Korea, South America and Europe. His TV news career began in Davenport, Iowa but Jim and his family have always felt at home in Colorado. Prior to returning to CBS4 where he anchored in the early 1990's, Jim worked at Denver's KUSA-TV and at KGW-TV in Portland, OR.
Tom Bower
Actor and Producer
A Colorado native, Tom’s most recent work includes playing 'Bill Wilson' in Crazy Heart with Academy Award winner Jeff Bridges, playing 'Sheriff Bob Maples' in the new film The Killer Inside Me starring Casey Affleck, Kate Hudson and Jessica Alba just released this June, and appearing in The Bad Lieutenant Port of Call, New Orleans as Nicholas Cage's father. Always working, Tom will guest star in the first episode of Rizzoli and Isles, a new television series with Brian Dennehy and Lorraine Bracco, and plays 'Joe' in the popular sci-fi series Battlestar Gallectia. Some of Tom’s other latest films include Appoloosa, Gospel Hill, Sessions, For Sale by Owner, Familiar Strangers and Feel. His long list of credits includes over 200 movies and TV shows, such as High Crimes, Die Hard II, Clear and Present Danger, The Waltons, Monk, NCIS, Cold Case, Law and Order, X-Files, NYPD Blue and West Wing. As veteran of the stage, Tom has appeared in 80 theatrical productions. He has been an executive producer, served as producer’s rep on over a dozen films, and was Chief Creative Officer for New Deal Studios, a production and distribution company based in Denver. Tom is also active with the Sundance Institute and Screen Actors Guild.
Dan Caplis
Attorney, Legal Analyst, and Television & Radio Host
Dan is co-host of the Caplis and Silverman Show airing on 630 KHOW and also appears frequently as a regular guest on network television talk shows and as a legal analyst for NBC and Denver's KCNC. He has practiced law as a civil trial lawyer for more than 20 years, and currently is founding partner of his own law firm. Dan's hard work and determination have earned him many prestigious honors and awards including the Humanitarian of the Year Award, the Ancient Order of the Hibernians, the annual ProVitiae Award, the Best OJ Simpson Trial Coverage by Westword, the 'Truth in Broadcasting' Award, the Associated Press Award for Investigative Reporting and 5280 magazine recently named Dan among the '25 Most Powerful' people in Denver. A popular MC and guest speaker, Dan and his wife, Aimee Sporer, former Emmy Award winning anchor at Denver's KCNC, are very active in the Denver community and have two children.
Rob Crosby
Nashville Songwriter and Recording Artist
Rob's latest hit song, Till The Last Shots Fired, was recorded by Trace Adkins and performed by Trace on last year's County Music Awards show. First heard publicly at our 2007 Songwriter's Night, this moving tribute to our men and women in uniform has become an instant hit! If you like country, you have heard a song written by Rob Crosby. His hits include Concrete Angel, by Martina McBride, She's More by Andy Griggs, Holdin' A Good Hand by Lee Greenwood,and She's a Natural,Love Will Bring Her Around, and Still Burnin' For You by Rob himself. His songs have been recorded by Brooks and Dunn, Darryl Worley, Ty Herndon, Restless Heart, Blackhawk, the legendary Carl Perkins (a duet with Paul Simon) and many more. A multi-award winning songwriter and a Top-10 recording artist with three nationally released albums and eight chart singles, Rob has toured with the best and currently hosts the show Writers in the Round in Nashville.
Tony David
Singer and Entertainer
Tony has shared his talent and love of music with Denver audiences for over 12 years now offering them a world class show. Performing over 1000 songs including everything from today's top hits to the nostalgic tunes of the 40's, Tony appears at clubs, special events, and private parties. Born and raised in Jackson, TN, Tony has been performing his entire life. After arriving in Denver, he began singing with the local group, The Glass Menagerie, but soon struck out on his own. Tony recently recorded his first CD, New Beginnings. His life-long passion for music is obvious in his unique voice, style and stage presence, and he has earned the admiration of an ever-growing fan club. Since becoming involved with our tournament, Tony has organized and performed at numerous fundraising concerts for TAPS. He has not only raised thousands of dollars but has also increased public awareness and interest in TAPS.
Kenny Bob Davis
Comedian, Musician, and Singer
Beginning as a folk singer in the 60's, then forming a traveling show band and lounge act in the 70's, Kenny Bob became a stand-up comedian in the 80's opening concerts and shows for stars such as the legendary George Burns, Willie Nelson, Ramsey Lewis, Kenny Rogers, Roy Clark, Vince Gill, and Larry Gatlin. For the past 30 years, Kenny Bob has headlined as a stand-up comedian, a one-man corporate showman, and is a repeatedly invited USO performer for our military men and women (He is a veteran USMC Corpsman). He has also guest starred as a comedian on Prime Time Country, John Davidson, Merv Griffin, and the Norm Crosby Comedy Shop, appeared in commercials, and had roles in ER, Zach and Cody, Sisters, Murder She Wrote, and the film Gremlins. Kenny Bob released his fourth live album, A Vegas Souvenir in 2008. Nicknamed the 'Golf Comic' by many PGA players and fellow entertainers, Kenny Bob has performed at or played in over 300 Charity and PGA/LPGA Tour events.
Burton Gilliam
Actor
An iconic character actor, Burton began his career in two Academy Award winning films, Paper Moon and Blazing Saddles, and has appeared in more than 42 other films including such favorites as Honeymoon In Vegas, Back to the Future III, Thunderbolt and Lightfoot and Fletch. For three years he played ‘Virgil Mosely’ on the television hit Evening Shade. Other credits include shows such as Everybody Loves Raymond, All In The Family, The Dukes of Hazzard, Knight Rider, The A-Team and hundreds of other TV appearances. Burton’s commercial and voice work include major products such as Ford Motor Co., Coco-Cola, Taco Bell, McDonald’s, and as the national spokesperson for Pace Picante. Prior to acting, Burton served in the US Coast Guard where he set records as a Golden Gloves Boxing Champion, and then spent 14 years as a Dallas firefighter. An avid golfer, he hosts and plays in numerous charity tournaments. Burton recently completed a starring role in the film Breaking The Press.
Lieutenant General Michael Gould
US Air Force Academy Superintendent
Lt. Gen. Michael C. Gould is Superintendent, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo. Prior to assuming his current position, he was Director of Operations and Plans, U.S. Transportation Command, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. Lt. General Gould is a command pilot with more than 3,000 hours in a variety of aircraft. He earned his commission and a bachelor's degree in behavioral science from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1976. His operational and staff assignments include three tours at Headquarters U.S. Air Force, along with duty as an Air Force aide to the President and military assistant to the Secretary of the Air Force. He served as the Director of Mobility Forces for Operation Joint Endeavor and as USEUCOM's Air Expeditionary Task Force commander for the deployment of African Union troops into the Darfur region of Sudan.
James Hampton
Actor, Screenwriter and Director
From this first film, the Academy Award nominated The Cliffdwellers, to the multi-award winning movie Sling Blade, James’ career as an actor, writer and director spans over 40 years. He received a Bronze Halo Award for Hawmps, a Golden Globe nomination for The Longest Yard, and starred in other films such as Teen Wolf, China Syndrome, Condorman, Pump Up The Volume, and Police Academy V. On television he is best known as the tone-deaf bugler 'Pvt. Hannibal Dobbs' on F Troop, but has appeared in hundreds of TV favorites like The Doris Day Show, Who’s The Boss, The Bob Newhart Show, The Rockford Files and Gunsmoke. James was a regular guest on The Tonight Show with over 30 appearances, worked as a writer/producer on Evening Shade and directed numerous successful sitcoms. Most recently, James appeared in SyFy's Fire From Below and will be seen in The Prodigal Son and The Last Ride. James served with the Army's 6th Armored Cavalry and won awards for performing with the USO.
Pamela Hughes
Singer and Entertainer
Pam currently appears with Tony David and her strong, beautiful voice captivates her audiences and has made Pam a very popular draw in her own right. Although she has been singing her entire life, Pam only began her professional career six years ago, and recently released her first CD, Blue Covers. Although Pam is an extremely versatile singer, her favorite songs are ballads, blues and soft rock. Originally from Dunoon, Scotland, Pam came to the U.S. as a teenager. She is married and has five boys. She loves being part of Tony’s act and feels blessed to be able to live her dream and perform. Once you hear Pam sing, we are sure you will agree that she has a bright future in the entertainment business.
Jake Jabs
Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and Auctioneer
Sponsor of our first TAPS Tournament and ongoing supporter, American Furniture Warehouse President and CEO, Jake Jabs, is not a run-of-the-mill businessman by any stretch of the imagination! Few know that Jake began his career as a country musician and singer, appearing with some of the best, including Marty Robbins, Mel Tillis and Leroy Van Dyke, and that he began his entrepreneurial career in guitar sales. American Furniture Warehouse was founded in 1975 when Jake purchased the struggling, 90-year-old American Furniture Company store. Under his leadership over the last three decades, American Furniture Warehouse has expanded into a twelve-store operation, is the largest privately held business in Colorado, and become one of the top retail furniture companies in the U.S. Jake has traveled throughout more than 50 countries over the course of his career as a major furniture importer as well as during his early years as an Air Force officer. Jake's enormous, caring heart has resulted in a deep commitment to give back to the community and the positive impact of his generous support is evidenced by the astronomical list of charities he helps and awards he has received!
Brett Jones
Nashville Songwriter, Recording Artist and Publisher
Brett's recently released album Life's Road includes his new song Before They Were Famous, first heard publicly at our 2008 Songwriters Show and features our own Pete Coors playing the spoons! His first hit in the U.S. country market was his 1993 Top-20, Confederate Railroad's When and Where. Since then he has had over 125 major recordings and 14 Top-10 records, including five #1 hits. His most recent successes have been Montgomery Gentry's What Do You Think About That, Billy Currington's That'sHow Country Boys Roll, and Jason Aldean's current single, Crazytown. He recently achieved rare status in country music songwriting by having #1 records in each of the past 3 decades.Besides being an accomplished songwriter, Brett has also been very successful the past 12 years as a publisher. He has played a role in the careers of songwriter Tony Lane, Warner Bros. recording artist Jason Jones, writer Dallas Davidson, new Sony recording artist Joanna Smith and writer/artist Martin McDaniel.
John Lynch
Fox Sports Analyst, Super Bowl Champion, nine-time Pro Bowler and Former Denver Bronco
A nine-time Pro Bowl selection with four Associated Press All-Pro recognitions, John earned a Super Bowl ring with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Super Bowl XXXVII. After playing college ball at Stanford, John spent the first 11 years of his NFL career with Tampa Bay before joining the Denver Broncos in 2004. He retired as a free agent during the 2008 season and began working for Fox Sports as a color analyst for the 2009 NFL season. John was ranked #10 as the most feared tackler in NFL history in the NFL Films production Top 10 Most Feared Tacklers for the NFL Network. He has also received two prestigious NFL awards recognizing his off-the-field efforts in the community: the Bart Starr Award and Byron "Whizzer" White Award. John has been recognized by The Sporting News as one of the 'Good Guys' in sports several times for his work through the John Lynch Foundation, formed in 2000 to develop leadership, provide encouragement and positive alternatives for today's youth.
Billy Montana
Nashville Songwriter and Recording Artist
Country Weekly described Billy's music as 'a common man's wisdom voiced in an uncommon manner.' Inspired by his rural background, the result is music that is refreshingly eloquent, simple and honest. Most recently, Billy showcased his writing skills in Garth Brooks' record breaking single More Than a Memory, which entered the Billboard and R&R charts at #1. Other #1 hits include the Grammy-nominated Bring On the Rain, recorded by Jo Dee Messina and Tim McGraw that was both a country and AC hit, and the Sara Evans' smash Suds in the Bucket which was the most performed song by a female artist in 2004. As a recording artist, Billy's own album No Yesterday was critically acclaimed in USA Today, and his single A Clean Mindand Dirty Hands, was awarded 'Song of the Year' by the Farm Journal as best depicting genuine farm life. Billy also wrote Friends for Life for the animated MGM film TomSawyer.
Gary Morris
Singer, Songwriter and Broadway Star
Our former Event Host, Gary is probably best known for his original recording of Wind Beneath My Wings, which won both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music 'Song of the Year' Awards. A Texas born vocalist and songwriter, he began his country music career in the early 1980's, producing twelve albums, sixteen Top-10 singles and five #1 hits, including Baby Bye Bye, 100% Chance of Rain and Leave Me Lonely. At the height of his Nashville recording career, Gary boldly opted to play opposite Linda Ronstadt in the opera La Boheme, and then accepted the lead role of Jean Valjean in Les Miserables on Broadway. His famous rendition of Bring Him Home can be found on the platinum-selling Grammy Award-winning International cast album, as well as on his latest CD, Bring Him Home & Other Prayers. Gary's magnificent voice has graced the historic stage of the Grand Ole Opry, as well as the White House, where he has performed for every living U.S. President. Equally comfortable in front of the camera, for five years Gary hosted TNN's top-rated show, North American Sportsman, which showcased his love for the outdoors His acting credits also include recurring roles on The Colby's, DesigningWomen, and Mike Hammer. Still keeping an active touring and producing schedule, Gary presently divides his time between Nashville and a second home at Mountain Spirit, his spectacular hunting and fishing executive resort near Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
General Gene Renuart
Commander North American Aerospace Defense Command and US Northern Command
Air Force General Gene Renuart ends his 39-year Air Force career on July 1 with an extensive record of distinguished, exemplary service and a lengthy list of awards and decorations. Since March 2007, he has overseen the North American Aerospace Defense Command, a joint US-Canada command, and also the US Northern Command, which oversees our military's homeland defense. Both are headquarters at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs. Commissioned into the United States Air Force in 1972, he served in various assignments, commanding at the squadron, group, wing and Joint Task Force levels. General Renuart is a command pilot and has more than 3,800 flight hours, including 60 combat missions. He served as the US Central Command Director of Operations, overseeing all humanitarian assistance and reconstruction activities for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Prior to assuming his current position, General Renuart was the Senior Military Assistant to the Secretary of Defense in Washington DC.
Brigadier General Steve Ritchie, Retired
Fighter Pilot ACE and TAPS National Board of Directors
A true American hero, Steve is the only Air Force Pilot Ace in over 50 years! With over 3,000 hours of fighter time, including 800 hours of combat hours in the F-4 Phantom during 339 missions, Brigadier General Steve Ritchie is one of the most decorated Air Force pilots in military history! His decorations include the Air Force Cross (our nation's second highest award), 4 Silver Stars, 10 distinguished Flying Crosses and 25 Air Medals. Steve's exploits have been chronicled in numerous documentaries, TV shows and books about Ace Pilots and Vietnam. On Words of Freedom-Men of Honor, a living history audio CD, Steve tells about the inspiring rescue of Fighter Pilot Roger Locher moments before being captured by the Viet Cong. Steve graduated from the Air Force Academy where he was a star football player. He currently serves on the TAPS National Board of Directors and shares his experiences as a motivational speaker. Steve has just returned from the 'Legends of Aerospace Tour' that brings famous aviators and astronauts to visit our military stationed in Europe and Southeast Asia to honor their defense of freedom.
Jimmie Rodgers
50's and 60's Songwriter & Recording Star, Actor, Variety Show Host
With 14 Gold singles, 6 Gold albums, and 3 Grammy nominations, Jimmie is one of the early rock & roll pioneers. Some of his legacy of classic, timeless hits include Honeycomb, Kisses Sweeter Than Wine, Oh, Oh, I’m Falling In Love Again, Secretly, Are You Really Mine and Bo Diddley. A regular on shows like American Bandstand, the Ed Sullivan Show and Kraft Music Hall, Jimmie was also a popular guest on numerous variety and talk shows. In 1958 he had his own show on NBC, and later in 1969, he made a brief return to television with a summer variety show on ABC. Jimmie has also appeared in movies, written commercial jingles and wrote and recorded the movie soundtrack for The Long Hot Summer. He appeared in a 1999 PBS video, Rock & Roll Graffiti, and has recently finished writing his highly charged, emotional autobiography book Dancing On The Moon, and its screenplay adaptation, detailing the savagery of the recording business and the tragic, life-threatening beating that left him with metal plate in his skull. Jimmie, an Air Force veteran, and his wife Mary are happily retired in Palm Springs.
Mike Rosen
KOA Radio Talk Show Host and Columnist
Mike hosts Denver's most popular and listened to radio talk show The Mike Rosen Show on 850 KOA, now in its twenty-second year. He also writes an editorial-page column for The Denver Post and is a regularly featured political analyst in many Denver and national media venues. Mike has appeared on GoodMorning America, The Larry King Show, The O'Reilly Factor, Hannity and Colmes, CNN Tonight,National Public Radioand many others; guest hosted for Rush Limbaugh, and published articles in the Wall Street Journal, National Review and Washington Times. He holds an MBA degree from the University of Denver, was a corporate finance executive at Samsonite and Beatrice Foods, served as Special Assistant for Financial Management to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy at the Pentagon and is a veteran of the US Army. He's traveled extensively in Europe, the Far East, Latin America, southern Africa and the former Soviet Union. Mike grew up in Brooklyn, New York and has lived in Denver for thirty-nine years.
Leslie Satcher
Nashville Songwriter, Recording Artist and Producer
Arriving in Nashville in 1989, Leslie's exceptional talent as a singer and songwriter was soon recognized by stars such as Naomi Judd who took her under her wing. Leslie is well known for the many hit songs she has written recorded by artists including Martina McBride, Pam Tillis, Reba McIntyre, Randy Travis, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Riatt, George Jones, Trisha Yearwood, Patty Loveless, Vince Gill and dozens more. Her 2006 song Politically Uncorrect, performed by Merle Haggard and Gretchen Wilson, was nominated for a Grammy. Leslie's singing career took off with the release of her first album in 2002, the critically acclaimed Love Letters that established her as one of the leading singer/songwriters in the country music industry today. Now, Leslie has finished her own 'creation' with the 2005 release of her long awaited second CD, Creation, her first independent project. The traditional Texas sound is the trademark of this fifth generation Texan, and Leslie was honored in 2007 by the Texas State Legislature. Currently Leslie performs her signature 'Texas' country music all over the US and is often found doing benefits as well as continuing to pen songs for other artists such as her 2008 smash hit Troubadour, recorded by George Strait.
Craig Silverman
Attorney, Legal Analyst, and Radio Host
Craig is currently co-host of the Caplis & Silverman Show on 630 KHOW and partner of the law firm of Silverman & Olivas, P.C. His legal career spans 30 years and Craig has participated in over 100 jury trials. After serving as the Chief Deputy District Attorney at the Denver District Attorney's Office for sixteen years, Craig focused his attention on his private practice and media consulting. He has been frequently quoted in scores of major publications including the New York Times, USA Today, Washington Post, and the Los Angeles Times. National television appearances have included dozens of appearances on MSNBC, CNN, Fox News, NBC, ABC, and CBS. Since 1997, Craig has served as the legal expert for the Denver‘s KMGH TV Channel 7, is a regular on KBDI Channel 12’s award winning Colorado Inside Out, and is a legal analyst for News Radio 850 KOA. In addition to his busy work schedule, Craig and his wife, Trish, are raising two sons.
Jerry Sturm
Football Star and Restaurateur
Former Denver Bronco and two-time Pro Bowler, with the Topps cards to prove it! After playing center at the University of Illinois, Jerry joined the Broncos and played here from 1961-1966. Gaining a reputation for speed, versatility and exceptional determination, Jerry played center, guard, tackle and linebacker. He was an AFL All-Star in 1964 and 1966 and was selected to play in the Pro Bowl both those years. Traded to New Orleans in 1967, Jerry began his NFL career and was a four-year starter for the Saints. He signed with the Houston Oilers in 1971 and the Philadelphia Eagles in 1972. Surgery ended his career in 1973. He sports two "titanium knees" as scars of his football career. Making Denver their home, Jerry and his wife Debbie support many local charity events. They own and operate The South restaurant in Englewood, Colorado that has been open for over 40 years and is known for their wonderful Mexican food, friendly staff and superb margaritas.
Steffan Tubbs
KOA Radio News Anchor and Reporter
Steffan currently is co-host of Colorado's Morning News, 850 KOA's award winning morning newscast airing from 5-9 weekdays. A three-time winner of the Edward R. Murrow award for national reporting, domestically Steffan has covered breaking news such as the Columbine shootings, 9-11, Hurricane Katrina and other natural disasters, the Oklahoma City bombing, high profile trials and national politics. Internationally, in 2006 he was embedded for two weeks in Iraq with the Army's 4th Infantry Division and spent time in the Middle East, Mexico City, Japan and Australia. Steffan is a proud supporter of our military and national spokesman for the Denver-based Greatest Generation Foundation, an international educational organization which honors our veteran's sacrifices and accomplishments while organizing and funding the opportunity for them to revisit the sites of their battlefield campaigns.
Grandville "Sonny" Van Dusen
Actor
Sonny graciously provided his talent to record a voice-over for the new TAPS promotional video. He recently toured with his one man stage play, The Memoirs of Abraham Lincoln. His extensive career includes roles in The Dresser with Len Cariou, the L.A. Production of Golf with Alan Shepard with Jack Klugman, and playing ‘Scar’ in the L.A. production of The Lion King. After a healthy stage career, Sonny went on to character roles on TV and played ‘Keith Davidson’ on The Young and the Restless, both a Klingon Magistrate and an Andorian General on Star Trek: Enterprise, starred with Patti Duke and Teri Hatcher in a short-lived sitcom, Karen's Song, and also appeared in the West Wing, E.R., Gilmore Girls, Judging Amy, Walker Texas Ranger and numerous other shows and made for TV movies. In addition, he is known for his extensive roles doing cartoon character voices, TV commercial voice-over work, and narration. Sonny is the 'best story teller in the world' according to Bo Cottrell.
Natalie Vickers
Sports Anchor, Reporter and Show Host
Natalie is currently a broadcaster for the Mountain West Sports Network, a division of Comcast called The MTN that is dedicated to covering the collegiate Mountain West Conference. Building on her 11-year career as a sports anchor, reporter and show host in various cities, she has worked for CBS, Fox, Fox Sports Net, and the Sunshine Network. Natalie comes from a sports broadcasting family. Her father, Joe Angel, is a 30- year broadcasting veteran who has been nominated for the Baseball Hall of Fame and is currently the voice of the Baltimore Orioles. A former Miami Dolphins cheerleader, Natalie resides in Castle Pines with her entrepreneur husband Bo.