7th grader raises money to mark Veterans’ graves
I read stories like this and I figure America is gonna be alright after all;
“I wanted to find a project that was really close to my heart and for Memorial Day,” Reina told Jennifer McCannon’s seventh-grade language arts class during a presentation in January.
After speaking with Stanko, Reina learned that 11 military veterans buried in Steamboat didn’t have headstones.
She decided to raise money to pay for headstones, like the ones issued by the VA, to replace the white crosses. Reina wanted to make sure the veterans buried in Steamboat without headstones weren’t forgotten.
“It honors them, how they died — sacrificing their life and helping our country,” she said.
So with the help of a local American Legion post commander, she’s raised $1200 of the $1500 they’d need to mark the graves of heroes. Read the rest of the story.
Category: Support the troops
A wonderful story. My only complaint is her comment that, until, her Uncle was killed, she hadn’t known what Memorial Day was. That’s on her parent’s.
Other than that, well done, Miss. Well done!
I have to agree with Tim. How many other children – or adults, for that matter – don’t understand what Memorial Day is supposed to be about…
As a funeral director, Army reserve veteran, father of two currently serving sailors and former instructor at the local Mortuary School,I am amazed that NO ONE understands that FREE Veteran’s Administration markers are available for those with Honorable Discharges. I have worked with folks putting markers on Civil War veteran graves many years AFTER their deaths. It requires a bit of research and minor paperwork, but is NOT impossible.
Very surprised the Legion guys did not know this.
Of course if those in question have Big Chicken Dinners or Less Than Honorable, you have a problem.
Billy Bob
Suppose I should have read the article first, but if Mr. Stenko has enough info to believe these men were veterans, there should be enough of a paper trail to find records.
The Old Army and Navy Branch at the National Archives is a very good outfit and these searches are their bread and butter.
Billy Bob