MDA National Vice President Ed McMahon possesses one of the most recognized faces and voices in broadcasting. He's anchored the MDA Labor Day Telethon, side by side with star Jerry Lewis, since 1968. 

His voluntary work for MDA has included public speaking, benefit performances and media interviews about the Association's programs. In recognition of his many years of diligent service to people with muscular dystrophy, the Association has awarded McMahon both its Lifetime Achievement Award and its National Humanitarian Award.

Considered among the country's most familiar and popular personalities, McMahon began his television career in Philadelphia. When he met a young Johnny Carson, the two forged an on-air partnership that would last 34 years, including a 30-year run of "The Tonight Show."

As a host in his own right on "Ed McMahon's Star Search," McMahon has helped launch the careers of many contemporary performers such as Lara Flynn Boyle, Sinbad, Rosie O'Donnell, Martin Lawrence, Drew Carey and others.

McMahon also has hosted numerous television specials such as "TV's Bloopers and Practical Jokes," Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, America's Junior Miss Pageant and The Night of the Stars from Las Vegas. The veteran performer has appeared in the Broadway comedy "The Impossible Years" and as corporate spokesman for such well-known organizations as Anheuser-Busch, Mercedes-Benz and Nabisco. McMahon has been nominated for a Grammy award and has written four books.

McMahon lives in Beverly Hills, Calif., with his wife, Pam, and has five grown children.

Credit: mdausa.org