Bravery Boxes for troops assembled and shipped by Bay High Key Club

One Bay High graduate serving in Qatar and more than a dozen Bay High graduates serving active duty stateside will receive Bravery Boxes from current Bay High Key Club members, whose participation in the project resulted in quite a learning experience.

Richard Gash, Class of 1992, and members of his unit deployed in Qatar from the westside of Cleveland, will enjoy boxes filled with treats like coffee, tea, dried fruit, cheese, candy and student-baked cookies. Also included are personal amenities like toothpaste, magazines, liquid soap, batteries and lip balm.

"Tracking down the names of the alumni who are serving was the biggest challenge," said Anita Bauknecht, the students' advisor. "But it's worth it. We know packages from home are one of the biggest morale boosters for our troops."

Students also learned about the commitment required by our troops from some who have served. Bay Village resident, Dr. Edward P. Horvath (M.D., M.P.H., Colonel, Medical Corps, U.S. Army Reserve), spoke at a meeting about his three recent tours of duty. Chuck Knight (Commandant of the Firelands Detachment 1192, Marine Corps League) worked with students to pack boxes and donated funds for mailing costs.

Items were collected from students and staff throughout Bay High, and students also wrote notes of appreciation to be included with the treats.