STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: RYAN H.
Aug 2, 2016
Ryan H. was very young when his father Lieutenant Lawrence H. passed away. While his memories of his father may be faint, his father’s spirit influences his life every day.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Ryan worked hard to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. He also was a member of his high school marching band for 4 years, as was his father.
Ryan currently is a first-year student at James Madison University. He believes his father would be most proud of him for doing well in college. In the future, he plans to attend medical school.
“Difficulties I have faced as a gold star military child include not being a part of a complete family,” explained Ryan. “With only my mom around, she has to pick and choose which child’s events and activities she goes to, thus forcing her to miss important events.”
Over 97% of those killed in action are men, often leaving mothers with the financial and emotional responsibilities of raising a family. While there are many struggles for single mothers, they find comfort in knowing there are organizations like Fallen Patriots who want to help.
Through the generous support of our partners, Fallen Patriots has helped over 2,700 surviving children, like Ryan, attend college. As incoming freshmen embark on the next chapter of their lives, Fallen Patriots invites donors to become an influential part of the journey by joining the Class of ’20 by as a monthly donor.