Madison 3rd-graders spread holiday cheer
Jodie Pulciani's third-grade class at Madison Elementary School gave an overwhelming response to Gov. Patrick Quinn's request for them to send a little love to wounded service men and women being cared for at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. The Governor made his request in late November and informed students that he plans to visit Landstuhl the week before Christmas and personally deliver the handmade cards.
When Pulciani reviewed her students' letter she said it brought tears to her eyes and she knew they would have a positive impact on the soldiers. The text from inside five of the cards are shared below:
Dear Soldier,
Hi, My name is Idress. I am very sorry that you are in the hospital and away from home. Just telling you I am from Madison School in third grade. I mean I wrote this from there. I hope you are going to get out of the hospital so you could celebrate Christmas with your family.
Dear Soldier
My name is Kathleen. I'm in third grade. Thank you for risking your life for the people in our country. But I am really sad you're in the hospital and can't get home. I think you're the bravest of all. I really, really hope you have a merry day and the happiest Christmas you could have. Get Well Soon!
Dear Soldier,
Hi, my name is Chase. I am in 3rd grade. Merry Christmas. I hope you guys feel better soon. P.S. I am in the cub scouts so I have to salute a lot.
Dear Soldier,
Thank you for risking your life to save our country. I hope you feel better. Have a happy Christmas. You are so brave, thank you!
Dear Soldier,
I am in 3rd grade. Thank you for sacrificing yourself to save our country and I hope you feel better soon. You are a true hero. Thank you and I hope you have a great Christmas.
Landstuhl Regional Medical Center is the largest American military hospital outside of the continental United States, with about 110 physicians, 250 nurses, 40 Medical Service Corps officers, 900 enlisted personnel, and 550 civilian employees who work together to treat the most American soldiers who were wounded in Iraq or Afghanistan. The facility is about 80 miles southwest of Frankfurt Germany – and a five-hour medevac flight from Iraq.