United Through Reading Honors Service Members (Awww.....family alert get tissues)

Navy NewsStand ^ | Feb 2, 2006 | Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Nelson A. Graca

[SandRat]

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Family Literacy Foundation’s United Through Reading (UTR) program treated military members to a reception where Vice Adm. James M. Zortman, commander of Naval Air Forces, was a guest speaker at the San Diego Aerospace Museum Jan. 27.

The Family Literacy Program is a non-profit organization that has provided literacy services to more than 200,000 individuals through its first and largest program, UTR. All deployed military branches can use the UTR program to read aloud to a child, grandchild, or even a younger brother or sister they are mentoring.

“The UTR Program binds the deployed parents with their sons or daughters together with the simple act of reading a book and that’s extremely important,” said Zortman. “It has helped keep children interested in reading while creating some priceless lasting memories, and that’s what I want everybody to remember from tonight’s event.”

“Whether you’re the founder like Betty and Bill [Mohlenbrock], or you are the parents or service members participating in this, you’re making a difference in a lot of kids’ lives through this program,” said Zortman. “You’re making a difference with a lot of military families, and for that I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Kim Morten, wife of Lt.j.g. Craig Morten, deployed aboard USS Tarawa (LHA 1), recently began using UTR’s program. Her deployed husband read aloud to their children via Web cast or DVD.

“I would suggest this program to anyone with young children who can take advantage of it,” said Morten. “It’s truly a treasure we will keep with us as a reminder of our time with the military. In the time he was away from us, he knows he’s still helping with the family even if it’s only a small part by reading to them before they get tucked into bed.”

[SandRat]

060121-N-6652A-005 Pacific Ocean (Jan. 21, 2006) - Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Bruce Cole reads a book on camera as part of the "United Through Reading" program aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The program allows Sailors to send the taped sessions back home to their children during the deployment. Reagan is currently underway on its maiden deployment in support of the Global War on Terrorism and maritime security operations.
U.S. Navy photo by Airman Daisy Abonza (RELEASED)

[SandRat]

There I didn't forget this time.

[tarawa]

Very familiar with that Aerospace museum in Balboa park. Free entry for active duty servicemembers.

[E.G.C.]

BTTT