Number of Participants: 345
Hours Donated: 1
Value of Time Served: $2,915
Event Amount Raised: $4,302
Event Type: Veterans & Military Families
Sport: Organization
School: Smithtown High School-East
Date: September 21, 2022
Location:
10 School Street
Saint James, NY
USA
About:
Anthony Spiezio, an aspiring US Army Officer and the Executive Director of the Smithtown Military and Veterans Affairs Campaign, first began his journey in supporting our nation’s veterans after attending the New York Boy’s State Summer Program in Morrisville, NY. This program was run by the American Legion, a nationwide veterans organization, with influence from the United States Marine Corps. At this program, Anthony was granted the opportunity to speak with veterans and active military personnel alike, grasping the challenges that each of these groups face on a daily basis.
Remember Everyone Deployed. For many, these words represent a campaign introduced to Smithtown honoring those serving in our nation’s military. For others, these words encompass feelings of concern and helplessness that come alongside having loved ones deployed, defending the freedoms of the United States of America. It is my mission to demonstrate honor and respect to the military and their families in the Smithtown Schools community. As the President of Smithtown East’s DECA Chapter, I introduced a Military and Veterans Affairs Campaign with the goal of raising awareness for those within my community who have served in the US Military. Elevated awareness is created by participating in parades, inviting the American Legion to school events, and encouraging veterans to share firsthand knowledge with students. Additionally, students and faculty are encouraged to purchase and wear Remember Everyone Deployed (R.E.D.) T-Shirts in support of all who are deployed, and as a comfort to the families at home. All proceeds are donated to the Green Beret Foundation in support of their efforts in providing emergency and ongoing care to Special Forces soldiers and their families.
Through this advocacy, I found that deployed service members and their families fight two battles; the battle overseas, and the battle at home. The positive letters received have expressed comfort and support from those who are feeling alone. Through the implementation of the R.E.D. program, it is gratifying to affect the unification of my community in support of those who serve and their families.
If you would like to contribute, or purchase a t-shirt, please visit www.customink.com/fundraising/smithtownfri
