Gene and Bobbie Carnell, married 65 years, are both natives of Florida and now reside in North Carolina. On their way to Minnesota to see a new grandson, 9-11 happened-disrupting their plans but shattering many innocent lives. To help the healing process, they began to assume the roles of Uncle Sam and Aunt Samantha in costume-doing programs at schools, churches, civic clubs and festivals in 100 venues in six states. The Carnells were presented with an award from Congress in 2002 for "invaluable service to the community."
