Dear Editor:
We are writing to ask citizens and civic organizations across the state to help honor the World War II veterans of West Virginia. Just one Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) Battalion has been invited to represent the State of West Virginia at memorial activities in Normandy, France, on June 6, 2015. The JROTC Battalion from James Monroe High School/Monroe County Technical Center is only four years old, but it has already distinguished itself at state and regional JRTOC drill competitions and in community service to the county.
The cost to send a detachment of 17 cadets is $70,000. Close to $25,000 has been raised so far through fund-raising activities in Monroe County (population: 14,000). West Virginia has 55 counties. If every county contributes an average of $1,000, the goal will be met.
The Monroe County JROTC Battalion plans to bring with them a banner that represents all the counties of the state. They have also pledged that, if there are any funds raised in excess of the $70,000 needed for this year, they will “pass it forward” and contribute it to the fund-raising efforts of the JROTC battalion invited to represent West Virginia next year.
Last year, on the 70th anniversary of D-Day, the West Virginia flag was not seen among the JROTC detachments on the beaches of Normandy. Why? Not enough funds. Let’s not let that happen in 2015. Help represent your county. For information, contact Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Scott Womack or Master Sergeant (Retired) Michael Wiley at 304-753-6906 or via email at womackse@gmail.com.
Donation checks should be made out to: Monroe County Technical Center (MCTC), Attn: JROTC D-Day, RR 1, Box 97-1A, Lindside, WV 24951.
Sincerely,
Greenville Ruritan Club
Nancy Bouldin, Secretary
Monroe County