This past year, U.S. Army Sgt. Jordan Tubbs faced insurgents while escorting convoys in Iraq.
Wednesday, he faced a new challenge ? Clarkston-area children at North Sashabaw Elementary School.
Tubbs, along with local American Legion officers, spoke to students about how they can help troops overseas.
‘There are no restaurants, no Rite Aids, no shopping malls. What we want to do is help them out,? said Barney Schoenfeld, vice commander of American Legion Post 63 in Independence Township, at the school assembly.
The American Legion has been sending care packages to troops deployed overseas since World War II, Schoenfeld said.
North Sashabaw Elementary School’s student council organized the collection drive, getting in touch with the American Legion and asking for a collection box. The Legion is placing collection boxes throughout the Clarkston school district.
‘I think this is really good ? they’re out there and we’re here and we have all this stuff,? said Sydney Fahr, fourth-grade student council representative. ‘It’s kind to do something for other people. If you do kindness for other people, you get kindness back.?
‘If the Army needs something, we’re here to help them,? said Abi Howe, representing 5th graders.
‘And learn how it feels to give,? said Aalayna Green, third-grade representative.
Tubbs returned two weeks ago with the 303rd Military Police Company from a year’s duty in Iraq.
‘That’s a long time ? a very long time,? Tubbs said to the students. ‘A lot of guys are still there, and they have the same problems I had ? if you help out, it helps us out a lot.?
Legionnaires will return Nov. 13 to pick up the donations for delivery overseas by Christmas.
‘It means a lot to have you come talk to us,? said Principal Debra Latozas. ‘We’re very honored to have you here. We’ll do our best to fill the box.?
‘This is very nice, heart warming,? Tubbs said. ‘It’s good to get the community involved.?