Good Neighbor Visit Leads to Adoption
Students support soldier
Sgt. Brendan Runyon Last summer, Marine Sgt. Brendan Runyon was home on leave and had the chance to visit with his neighbor, elementary music teacher Kim Munyon before returning to complete his fifth tour of duty in Afghanistan. Sharing what she learned during that visit led third graders at Phillipsburg Elementary to “adopt” the soldier.
Students sent Sgt. Runyon care packages in September, October and November. They included short notes in October, and Mrs. Munyon hand delivered students’ Christmas cards when Sgt. Runyon was home on leave in December.
Sgt. Runyon completed his fifth tour of duty and was home again in February. He visited the elementary and middle schools on February 19th. His goal was to help students understand a day in the life of a soldier and how critical it is for a Marine to listen to and follow orders in combat situations. He also described a day in the life of an Afghanistan child.
He took time to answer students’ questions and stressed the importance of having respect for one’s elders and those in authority. He graciously accepted the gift of a Blue Ribbon School shirt from Principal Mike Gower on behalf of the students at Phillipsburg Elementary. He assured them he would wear it with pride!
Sgt. Runyon leaves for a sixth tour of duty later this spring. He will serve knowing he has continued support from the “kids” back home.
