UPDATE: Tony Graduates Bootcamp and
Gets Ready to See the World (See Below)
I've heard many people say that of the 79 students that
graduated Abraxas High School in 2002, 25 would not have
graduated without the support of the Coyote Youth Project.
Tony was definitely one of those who wouldn't have received
his diploma this year without the support of the Coyote
Youth Project.
With six weeks to go, and 30 credits to complete, the task
before Tony seemed overwhelming at first, both to him and
his mentors. But this was just one of the many challenges
that Coyote Youth students such as Tony have learned to
accept. I witnessed Tony overcoming this challenge, first
as his classmate, then as a mentor to him, and finally,
as his student. The completion of the cycle was quite inspirational.
In just the 10 month span in which I had known Tony, I had
seen quite a transformation in his character: growth in
his maturity, patience, appreciation and awareness. |
When I first met Tony, his passion for the wilderness and
nature observation was readily apparent. As I grew to enjoy
his unique personality, I began to see some of my characteristics
reflected in his actions. It was in his ability to teach
me the wilderness skills that reminded me of my past leadership
and coaching experiences in athletics. It began to dawn
on me that this "At-Risk" Teen who had been labeled
by some as anti-social, was actually just observing his
environment: becoming aware of the dynamics of social interaction.
At first, this inhibited his ability to interact with others.
But in the end, he was able to find himself a more acceptable
balance: leading when he thought it time to lead, observing
when he thought it time to observe.
Tony shipped out to Chicago on June 14, 2002 to start Basic
Training for the United States Navy. He had always spoken
to me about seeing the world, overcoming the challenge of
mental and physical fatigue, and becoming the best possible
scout he could for his country. We know you're up to the
challenge, Tony. Keep up the determination and dedication.
Push the limits of comfort, and find new ways to excel.
We miss you and love you, but know you're doing us proud.
Update: August 30, 2002
We've just received a letter from Tony. He has graduated
Boot Camp and is now stationed in Norfolk, Virginia aboard
the soon to be commissioned Aircraft
Carrier Ronald Reagan. Once commissioned, the ship and
crew will make a world tour. Tony joined the Navy to see
the world; what more could he have asked for!
Update: May 8, 2003
Tony just spent eight days in a whirlwind visit to San
Diego. He looks great. No more teenage acne! Strong, handsome
sailor! He is an Airman Apprentice and is already talking
about re-enlisting! We love you, Tony. Good work!
Update: May 11, 2003
Tony called from the ship to wish Susan a Happy Mother's
Day! He said he is one lucky guy to have two Moms! "I
am one lucky lady to have such a great "son,"
says Susan.
Update: March 10, 2006
Tony is on board the Ronald Reagan somewhere
in the Gulf! He has received his orders for shore duty
which will begin in May, 2006. He will be stationed
at North Island. Susan is delighted that "her son"
will be coming home soon.
Update: June 2,
Tony is home! And, he just re-enlisted! Three more years in the U.S. Navy this time with Battlecats 43 in North Island. Susan is so proud of Tony, you never see her without a smile on her face!
Update: March 12, 2007
Tony has left the mountain! Still with the Battlecats, Tony continues to work hard. We miss you, Tony! Call soon!
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