Alumni News
A+ Recognizes Veteran Alumni
In 2023, the A Plus Foundation’s Alumni Committee launched a
five-year initiative to honor West Aurora High School’s veterans
for their service during wartime.
Our first priority was to recognize Vietnam-era veterans. So
far, we have identified 340 service members and presented them
with their medallions, with approximately 190 more still to be
found. These veterans come from the graduating classes of 1959
through 1971.
In the coming years, we will extend this effort to honor alumni
who served in the Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan conflicts.
We take great pride in this mission, as few—if any—foundations
have so directly recognized their veteran alumni.
For those interested, please visit this link to read the heartfelt
reactions of many recipients, including both alumni and their
next of kin.
Tom Herget ’68, Alumni Chair
From Gina Briney Grabel, daughter of Bob Alcorn ‘65:
"I want to sincerely thank you for the lovely letter and medal you sent as an appreciation for my father, Bob Alcorn's service in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War. I was so young when he was taken from us (10 years old) and so any and all memories others have to share are always a welcome and happy commodity. They are the most special treasures I have left of him.
It really meant so much to me to receive your handwritten note and my husband and I (also both veterans) will frame it with the medal when the school year winds down and we have the proper time to give it the attention it deserves. This was such a special surprise, and I cannot truly convey with words my deepest appreciation for your kindness. Great Big Appreciative Hugs."
From Carolyn Garrison, widow of Steve Garrison ’69:
"I want to thank you for the wonderful gift I received in the mail in honor of my late husband, Steve, and his service in the US Army during the Vietnam conflict. I was very surprised. I know he would have been honored and humbled to receive this. I, too, wish you could have presented this to him in person. Thank you again for this wonderful gift."
From Wendy Brown Kissick, widow of Scott Brown ‘68:
"Received your letter and I thank you for informing me of the award. I would receive it but I think it better to send to our daughter. She was 6 when he died and has little memories to hold on to. It is a very kind gesture."
From Kathy Coughlin, widow of Tom Coughlin ’70:
"I recently received your letter and the medallion you sent in honor of Tom, from the West Aurora Foundation. Thank you so much for this!!! I know Tom’s brother, Jack, remained quite active with his fellow graduates in Aurora. It was so wonderful to receive your letter and understand the feelings of honor and respect you have for our Tommy. Thank you again for taking the time to write and send this recognition of his service to our country. God bless you!"