Venice Middle Young Marines plan peaceful Normandy invasion
Since 2011, Venice Middle Young Marines has been teaching the values of discipline, courage and selfless service to its members, middle school students between the ages of 11 and 15 who volunteer to be part of this full-day magnet program, the first of its kind in a public school. Every two years, the Venice Middle Young Marines take a transformative trip to learn about the history of America’s veterans and their service and sacrifice for our great country.
In 2019 the Venice Young Marines were asked to help recognize and celebrate the bravery of the World War II servicemen who fought on June 6, 1944, in the Allied invasion of Normandy, France, commonly known as D-Day. The Venice troupe will take 65 Young Marines to lay wreaths at the American Cemetery and march in the June 6 parade in St. Mere Eglise to honor the bravery of the men who helped liberate Europe and the World.
The trip is on the more expensive side and some of the students cannot participate without the financial support from local caring individuals and area businesses. The goal was to raise $100,000. Caldwell Trust Co. wanted to help. Kelly Caldwell and his wife, Melissa, hosted a fundraiser at the Caldwell Trust Co. headquarters in Venice to seek donations. Overall, the group reached 80% of its goal. Kelly and Melissa truly believe in the program. Their son, Zachary Caldwell, 12, who is in his second year (seventh grade) at Venice Middle School, has grown into a well-disciplined young man who possesses excellent leadership skills and much respect for his fellow young marines. Attending the fundraiser were Tomas Dinverno, Venice Middle School Principal; Major Michael A. Dubrule, USMC (Retired), Unit Commander of the Venice Young Middle Young Marines Program; and Susan Mass-Lyon, Venice Middle Young Marines Adjutant. Other guests included young marines Sgt. Brenna Magliacane, Sgt. Macy Brown, Cpl Allison Schapley, LCpl Christian DiGioia, PFC Zach Caldwell, and PFC William Krause.
— Submitted by Sheryl Vieira
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