We are looking for the most inspiring Service Hero story depicting a full-time active military family person. The contest is an essay style contest open to nominations about an individual actively involved in any branch of the military: Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy and Reserves. (We prefer to have the story submitted by a civilian friend, colleague, spouse, child, parent, family member, enlisted colleague or commanding officer rather than the hero him/herself. Self nominations will be accepted but are not encouraged).

The Service Hero Project is looking to highlight the individual who has gone above and beyond the call of duty and we want to know why he or she and his or her family deserve this special week of R and R. Submissions may be from a friend, family-member, officer or military co-worker. All entries must include the name and a contact phone number for the individual submitting the essay as well as pertinent contact information about the hero described in the essay, including, title, rank military branch, contact phone number and location/address. Photos are welcome.

Service Hero Nominations must describe a full-time active duty member of the military of any age, sex or rank. Winners must agree to share their stories with the press, have publicity photos taken and must agree to be interviewed for a follow-up story.

How long should entries be?
Essays should be one to two pages; a minimum of 400 words but no longer than 1,500 words.

What should the winning essay contain?
Judges will evaluate each submission on the merits of content and eloquence. Winner will be the person whose story evokes the most emotion and inspiration for readers. Each essay is read and ranked by reviewers for Pine Mountain Resort LLC. Finalists will be selected by two members of our distinguished review panel.

When is the entry deadline?
All entries submitted by email or must be postmarked by or before midnight (EST) March 21st 2005.

How do I submit my entry?
Essays may be submitted by e-mail or by postal mail. Electronic entries are accepted in most formats.

How will the winners be announced?
Winners will be notified by phone or e-mail and announced on this website in the Spring of 2005. All submissions become the property of Pine Mountain Resort LLC and will not be returned.

What does the prize entail?
Winners will receive a one week family vacation at Pine Mountain Resort, a free round of golf at the Pine Mountain Golf Course and a voucher for a free day of pampering and massage at the Spa at Pine Mountain Resort. Pine Mountain Resort is located in beautiful Connelly Springs, North Carolina near the South Mountains State Park. The winner and his/her family will stay in a luxury suite and receive complimentary breakfast every day. Resort amenities include: swimming pool and Jacuzzi, a playground, game room for kids and teens, an 83 acre golf course, and a gym. Pets are welcome. Black out dates may apply.  Call 1-877-439-PINE for availability. For more information about Pine Mountain Resort, please visit www.pinemtnresort.com