Churchville-Chili eighth-grader Wesley Colucci was honored by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ Chili Memorial Post 412 with a Patriot’s Pen Certificate of Merit for his essay on “Why I appreciate America’s veterans.” The presentation was attended by Patriot’s Pen Chairman Richard Forsey and Post Commander James Richardson.
The Patriot’s Pen Essay Competition, now in its 20th year, is sponsored by the VFW of the United States and its Ladies Auxiliary. Colucci’s essay took first place in the VFW Monroe County Council; second place in the Post 412; first place in the 8th District Ladies Auxiliary; and fourth place in the Department of NY VFW of the US District 8. Colucci plans to donate all of his cash awards – over $400 – to two veterans support organizations: Patriot Hunts and Reel Thanx.
The Colucci family has a long tradition of service that the young writer was able to draw upon. His great-grandfather was a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War I; both of his grandfathers served in the Army during the Korean conflict. His father, Michael Colucci, was an Army Ranger. His uncle, Sgt.1st.Class David Colucci, who is still serving in the Army’s Special Forces, was deployed to Afghanistan four times where he received the Silver Star and Purple Heart.
Both Reel Thanx (www.reelthanx.org) and Patriot Hunts (www.patriothunts.org) offer wounded warriors a chance to reconnect with nature and with themselves through hunting and fishing outdoor experiences.
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