The News Observer reported that Mormon youth, in Wake County North Carolina, invited a group of veterans to assist them in enhancing the Garner’s Veteran Memorial. Andy Ladner, the executive director of U.S. Veterans Corps, an organization that undertakes a variety of projects to help wounded veterans, went with his group of veterans to assist the youth group install new park benches, paint buildings, clear brush, install sod and manicure the space of the memorial.
“We had no idea how many people would be here. I thought like 20 kids would show up,” remarked Ladner. But the group of veterans were surprised when hundreds of youth throughout southern Wake County showed up to help, with many more participating in other projects throughout Garner.
In describing the goals of the project, Stake President Steve Bodhaine said it gave the kids a chance to see what being a patriot really meant.
“It’s great seeing these kids working side by side with these vets … It really helps these kids grow and get a different perspective.”
The service projects helped get the Memorial site ready for its Fourth of July celebration and honored those who have served in the Armed Services.
