Huntington Mobilizes for Operation Grateful Hearts

Huntington parent Theresa Ehrman launched the PTA’s Grateful Hearts initiative many years ago when her son was at J. Taylor Finley Middle School. Charlie Ehrman is now a documentary filmmaker and multimedia journalist specializing in the Middle East and US-Mexico border region, but the letter writing campaign has continued without interruption at Huntington High School.

Described as an “inspiring and rewarding tradition” by PTA members, the program first introduced by Mrs. Ehrman has been embraced by the high school teenagers, who recently penned about 100 cards of thanks to those serving in America’s armed forces.

The letter writing event is held annually near Valentine’s Day. Students create cards for military service men and women, thanking them for their commitment to keeping America safe.

“This year the notes are being given to Huntington High School alum and US Marine Corps first lieutenant Darya DeSimone (Class of 2015), who will help distribute them those at her base at Camp Lejeune,” said PTA member Janine Luca. “We were able to collect about 100 thank you notes to send along with some candy for the troops.”

PTA volunteers set-up a long row of six foot tables that spanned the length of the cafeteria. Blank cards, markers, pens, stickers, stamps, ribbons and inspirational quotes were available to students interested in creating the cards.

The teenagers enjoyed decorating and writing personal heartfelt messages to the troops for their service. The activity was offered free of charge to all students during the school’s lunch periods.

The participating teenagers believe it’s a way to “pay it forward.” Many faculty and staff members stopped by the tables.

“The kids really enjoyed showing the troops their gratitude,” Mrs. Luca said. “It was really cute watching some of them in great thought over the service that our troops provide for us and how to express that to them. So all in, I would say a successful event!”

PTA members said they hope to continue the program for many years to come.