GLENWOOD SPRINGS - Operation Vacation is a program that brings to the Roaring Fork Valley military personnel who have fought overseas. Bob Johnson, a Realtor for Vicki Lee Green Realtors, in Glenwood Springs, coordinated with the Army to create the program that hosts soldiers in Glenwood every month. Local businesses have donated dinners, entertainment, outdoor activities, lodging and transportation for Operation Vacation participants.

This year, the program expands to Winter Park in Grand County and to Dallas and Austin, Texas. For more information about the program, or to make donations, visit www.operationvacation.org.



Name: Troy W. Murphy

Age: 25

Place of birth: Williamsport, Pa.

Branch of the military: Active Army

Family: My wife Teresa, and my two daughters, Kayla and Mariah

When and why did you join the Army? August 25, 2005, to better my family's life and to serve my country

Where have you been deployed? Iraq, FOB Falcon

What experience in your travels overseas most surprised you? You find out who you really are.

First thing you'd buy after winning the lottery? A house with a big garage

What do you like to do in your free time? Hunt, work on vehicles, drag racing, fish and being with my family.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Since 5th grade I have always wanted to be a soldier.

Best piece of advice you've ever received: Someone always has it worse then you.

Any tattoos? Yes I have five. Both my daughters' names, my wife's name, a patriotic one and chinese letters.

If you could invite anyone in history to dinner, who would they be, what would you serve and what would you talk about? Daniel Boone, I would serve deer steak. We would talk about what the hunting was like in his time.

What's the greatest invention of all time? The camera. To capture memories that will last forever.

What's your most memorable military experience? The last day I spent with a close friend before he was killed in action.

What are you looking forward to doing while in Glenwood Springs? Enjoying time with my family. Doing and seeing new things.



Favorites

Movie: The Fast and Furious

Video game: Medal of Honor

Breakfast cereal: Lucky Charms

Music: Alternative

Sport: Hunting

Team: Real Tree

Athlete: Bill Jordan

Food: Lasagna

TV show: Monster Garage