COURTESY PHOTO
Gold Star mother Sue Ann Wood of Lynn holds a “welcome home” sign made by Tech students and a photo of her late son, Mathew.
Local veterans and military families received recognition for their service and sacrifice this week thanks to the Lynn Vocational Technical Institute’s “Welcome Home” community service project.
Tech SkillsUSA students spearheaded the mission to create welcome home packages for veterans including housewares, furniture, appliances, personalized welcome home signs and more.
“Seeing the kids enjoy themselves while working together and understanding it was for the veterans that fought for our country was wonderful,” said Marcus Taylor, a junior in Tech’s metal fabrication program.
Military Friends Foundation, a veterans and military family assistance organization founded more than a decade ago, worked with SkillsUSA students and Lynn Housing Authority and Neighborhood Development (LHAND) to assemble household items for veterans who received assistance in obtaining housing.
“Many of our new generation of warriors have seen multiple deployments and the war does not always end on the battlefield. Our warriors may face real challenges when they come home combating issues such as post-traumatic stress and homelessness,” said Sarah Sweeney, Military Friends executive director and the wife of an Afghan war veteran.
Combat veteran Jorge Rodriguez, a 2001 Tech graduate, told Tech students that his experiences at the school gave him focus and the determination to join the military. He credited LHAND with helping Lynn end veterans homelessness.
Sue Ann Wood of Lynn, mother of a Marine killed in action in Iraq, received much-needed kitchen items.
“It’s only recently that I have been able to say I have a home, so these generous items are very welcome. As a Gold Star Mom it gives me great comfort and pride to know the faculty and students of Lynn Tech are honoring the service of all veterans and remembering those who are serving today in harm’s way around the world.”