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Wyss resolution honors Alison Mansfield’s efforts for American troops
(STATEHOUSE) – When seventh-grader Alison Mansfield interviewed a soldier severely injured in Iraq, it turned into so much more than a school project.
The Fort Wayne teen-ager turned the words of her school report into action -- an inspiring story of patriotism and service Sen. Tom Wyss (R-Fort Wayne) shared with members of the Indiana Senate Thursday afternoon.
Wyss co-authored a Senate resolution with Senate President Pro-Tem David Long (R-Fort Wayne) and Sen. Dennis Kruse (R-Auburn) honoring Alison Mansfield for her two-year effort at collecting large quantities of personal-care items, cookies and letters of support for service members serving in Iraq and recuperating back in the U.S.
“So many times we hear the question ‘what can one person do to make a difference?’” Wyss said. “Here’s a bright shining example of a young person whose efforts have blessed soldiers thousands of miles away.”
Wyss said it all began when Alison interviewed a soldier who had been severely injured in Iraq. “She was so inspired by his bravery and dedication, she started a major project to help our troops,” Wyss said.
Alison’s school project suddenly became a mission that would have her:
- work with several airlines and restaurants to solicit letters for servicemen and women;
- collect more letters through her Girl Scout troop and 4-H club;
- set up a letter-gathering booth at the county 4-H Fair; and
- ask hotels and dental supply companies to donate soap, shaving gear, sewing kits, coffee, toothpaste and brushes, lotion and other items.
Everything collected was sent to military facilities in Iraq and to Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Alison’s efforts earned her the 2008 Prudential Spirit of Community Award. She was one of two Indiana youths named as the state’s top volunteers.
Wyss said the girl’s spirit was “remarkable” and an example for others to follow.
“The strength of our communities, and the overall vitality of American society depend, in great measure, upon the dedication of young people like Ms. Mansfield who use their considerable talents and resources to serve others,” Wyss said.
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