Veteran’s Tributes and Collections

By Paula Green

Veterans Day is celebrated annually on November 11, even though we are still amid a pandemic, that did not deter the military tributes from happening. Students at Blessed Francis Seelos Academy in Wexford collected and donated various food items, snacks, and other necessities to the Soldiers’ Angels organization. Soldiers’ Angels’ mission is to provide aid and comfort to the men and women of the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and their families.

The armed forces project was organized by BFSA eighth grade middle school teacher Mrs. Nicole Maxwell, assisted by Mrs. Sarah Desciak. The seventh-grade class also participated in the effort. The students packaged the items, and as an added surprise, they included over 200 handmade Christmas cards. The gifts were presented to Soldiers’ Angels volunteer Lynne Belko, who was deeply moved by the student’s generosity. For more information on Soldiers’ Angels, visit www.soldiersangels.org.

In Hampton, the township held its annual Veterans Day 5K in support of Operation Troop Appreciation. This military organization is a 100% volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the active and veteran members of our Armed Forces who serve and sacrifice for our country. The race was held on Sunday, November 8. Proceeds from the event were used to provide holiday care packages for active-duty troops. Participants for the race included the Hampton High School Band, Scouts from Troop 195, the Hampton Township Police Department, and Fire Police, along with two local fire companies. For more information on this military outfit, visit www.operationtroopappreciation.org.

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum had a bright way of honoring veterans. They held a special luminary campaign called “Fill the Hill.” During November, individuals were able to go to the Soldiers & Sailors website and sponsor a flag in honor of a veteran in their life. Once a sponsorship was received, a flag was placed on the front lawn of Soldiers & Sailors with the honoree’s name placed on it. The names were also noted on their website. It was a successful undertaking; hundreds of flags were purchased and flown proudly to honor those who served. For more information, visit https://www.soldiersandsailorshall.org/.

Finally, this time of the year, the Marine Corps is having their “Toys for Tots” campaign. This program has been around since 1947. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, collections have been a bit tougher this year. The Marine Corps graciously accepts toy and monetary donations.

To find out how you can help, visit https:// www.toysfortots.org/.