E-mail a friendAugust 30, 2006
original airdate May 19, 2006
Israel Gaither shares the backstory of becoming the first African American National Commander in Salvation Army history. Entertainment mogul Merv Griffin discusses his diverse career.
Israel Gaither
Israel Gaither
Israel Gaither is the first African American National Commander in Salvation Army history. In his service with the organization, he's earned several other African American 'firsts,' including being the first to serve as Chief of Staff, the first appointed to a position outside of the U.S. and the first to become a divisional commander. A Pennsylvania native and ordained minister, Gaither has traveled to more than 30 countries, including Africa and England, providing support and guidance to the Army's leaders.
Merv Griffin
Merv Griffin
Merv Griffin on interviewing Martin Luther King, Jr.
Winner of 17 Emmys, Merv Griffin has had a major impact on TV. He tackled controversial guests and topics on his talk show. He created the most popular game shows in syndication history - Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! - and wrote their theme songs. Inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame, he runs a business empire that includes a production company, a racing stable of thoroughbreds and a production company. Griffin's philanthropic causes include Childhelp USA.