By Yuka Noda
Calendar Editor
Even 13 years after America woke to find itself tangled in a war on terror, thousands of people are still dealing with the emotional effects of 9/11.
Junior Michael LoCascio is looking to support those still recovering from the effects of the traumatic event by proposing the Wounded Warriors Club at Costa.
LoCascio intends to cordinate club proceedings and events with the Wounded Warriors Project. WWP is an organization that aims to raise awareness and support for veterans of the armed forces, with a special emphasis on helping service members with 9/11-related injuries and ailments.
“I hold this issue close to my heart, and it would make me happy to see other people be interested in it, too,” LoCascio said. “I want this to be more than just something you put on your college application. I want it to actually make changes.”
According to LoCascio, he decided to create the Wounded Warriors Club after hearing of a soldier who, after serving 10 tours in Afghanistan, got injured by a roadside bomb. The soldier survived and after his treatment, he decided to return to fight the war.
“I think his determination was incredible, and his sacrifice needs to be recognized,” LoCascio said. “I don’t think enough people realize the scale of the sacrifice given by these men and women. We need to do our part too.”
Even though the club has not been officially approved, students have already shown interest in joining the club by meeting in room 14 to set the club’s goals and discuss plans for upcoming meetings. The club will be reviewed for approval by Associated Student Body members, along with ASB advisor Lisa Claypoole, later this school year.
“I am excited to support LoCascio and his club and be involved with the club’s cause,” junior Drew Boettner said. “I definitely think we can make a difference if this club is approved, especially since there is nothing exactly like this at Costa yet.”
In order to fundraise for the WWP veterans, the club plans on holding regular benefit concerts in the Costa library. LoCascio is hoping the club will have between two and four concerts a year.
“I chose to do a benefit concert because I love to sing and perform,” LoCascio said. “I think they are a really fun way to celebrate talent, support a worthy cause and spread awareness all at the same time.”
Costa English teacher William Brown, an artillery veteran himself, agreed to be the club advisor.
“I’m grateful that somebody is involved and paying attention to the veterans who have served this country,” Brown said. “I think the biggest crime is sending them out to fight in wars and expecting them to come back and be the same.”
Leave a Reply