St. Patricia School Welcomes T.Sgt. Josh Reed of the United States Air Force.
St Patricia students, grades 3rd-8th, gathered to listen and ask questions of life in the armed forces and serving overseas.
A true Patriot, who passionately serves his country out of love and dedication, that is what T.Sgt. Josh Reed is. Students at St. Patricia School in Hickory Hills were honored to to be able to welcome him into their halls and listen to his experiences serving in Syria, Iraq, and Qatar. Children were able to engage in a Q and A session, found out that Northern Syria looks a lot like a green version of Nebraska, and were privileged to view a combat flag flown into combat on a B-52 in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. As Mr. Rodger’s is famously quoted to say, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” That is exactly what Josh Reed did each day in fire and rescue on his tours abroad, and does in our local communities as a member of law enforcement. Students were able to instantly connect to this Southside, Catholic school graduate who came to thank the children for their letters and care packages sent to our troops. At times, communication back to the States is difficult, but the letters and boxes were able to be delivered and give those stationed a smile and connection back home. Many serving are parents, and Sgt. Reed noted how the student’s correspondences were akin to having surrogate children write to them and send them cards.
The effort, coordinated by Kruse Krews a volunteer group local to Hickory Hills and Palos Hills led by Jim Kruse, sends care packages to our Troops serving overseas in order to honor those men and women defending our country and to let them know that they are not forgotten. It was wonderful to hear Sgt. Reed say, “Your letters make all the difference. From myself and all those who wear this uniform, thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
If you would like to see the framed combat flag, it will be at St. Patricia Catholic Church during masses this Memorial Day Weekend, May 26-27th. Mr. Jim Kruse is following orders to “let it fly” by accompanying the flag to various local schools and sharing with the children the difference their efforts make to those brave men and women defending Our Country.
