I had an opportunity to interview a young 15-year old man from Coal Grove who is attempting to follow a career in the U.S military — the Marine Corps, specifically.

I am retyping the paper he gave me soliciting help in raising the money to help him get through the Fishburne Military School in Virginia.

I found him to be honorable, straightforward and sincere and in need of help.  If you have a few extra bucks to spread around, I think this is a chance to make a good investment in the future of our country. (…)

The paper he provided has his picture and the title, “Please Help Me Continue My Education.”:

“My name is Andrew Watkins.  I am 15 years old and am entering my second year at Fishburne Military School in Virginia.

This opportunity means a lot to my because I have wanted to follow my grandfather and become an officer in the Marines since I was very young.  Attending this school is helping me to achieve this goal.  I have been awarded a generous financial aid and scholarship package which reduces my tuition to $7,000. 

My parents are on a limited budget because my father is disabled. They are doing all they can to help my but he has congestive heart failure and my mom is his caregiver, so there isn’t much money.

We have started a gofundme campaign at gofundme.com/5vi2sn4 and are also looking to the community for help.  (…)  I appreciate any help you can give.

Thank you,

Andrew Watkins”

Cmdr. Paul F. Woods, USN (Ret)

Former Ironton Port Authority chairman