Helen Keller Middle School student William Correa was recently recognized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10059 for demonstrating civic responsibility in his community.
Correa along with Trumbull High School student Jack Geraghty were honored during an awards ceremony held Feb. 12 in the River Valley Theater Room in Trumbull.
Post 10059 reached out to schools in Trumbull, Monroe, Shelton, Easton and Redding for candidates for this year’s theme, “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support For Our Country?”
Post members chose the winners based on students’ volunteer work, leadership and involvement in their communities. The Voice of Democracy program, which started in 1947, and its companion Patriot’s Pen program provide students across the country with the opportunity to write and record patriotic-themed essays at the high school and middle school levels, respectively. The VFW’s youth scholarship programs provide students across the country with the opportunity to express their patriotism and compete at the state and national level for a scholarship.
Correa, a seventh-grader at Helen Keller Middle School in Easton, said he was honored by the recognition.
“I am very humbled and honored to be awarded recognition by VFW Post 10059,” Correa said. “Their group of veterans does so much for other veterans, and I’m proud to be a small part of their efforts by sharing my respect for them and our great country by making my voice heard and showing my patriotism to others.”
Correa said he demonstrates patriotism through service in his community. Through the school’s Peer Leadership club, he volunteers with classmates to serve meals to families in need at St. John’s Family Center in Bridgeport. His family also participates in volunteer efforts.
Matthew Baca, Correa’s Science teacher at Helen Keller Middle School, described him as a strong leader in the classroom.
“William leads through his actions on a daily basis,” Baca said. “He is always one of the first to volunteer to help with classroom activities, answer questions and assist other students, and he does this all with a great attitude.”
Baca said Correa works well with classmates and is known for his kindness and sense of humor.
Correa said he hopes to serve in the military, following the example of his father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Geraghty, a senior at Trumbull High School, was also recognized for leadership and service. At school, he mentors and supports students with special needs and is known for encouraging teammates on the rugby field. His coaches honored him with a Lifetime Teammate Award for his leadership and sportsmanship.
