Home on leave, Wadena-Deer Creek High School 2012 graduate Jacob "Jake" Ludovissie stopped by WDC Middle/High School, Feb. 29 to extend his "thanks" to fifth-graders for writing him Christmas letters while stationed at U.S. Marine Boot Camp in San Diego.
Private First Class (PFC) Ludovissie, who enlisted in the Marines in November, recalls being terribly homesick at Christmas time. It was his first Christmas away from home. One day, his commander came in with a huge box during Mail Call.
"I couldn't believe it. All these letters and cards came falling out. It was such a good feeling, knowing these kids took the time to do such a nice thing for me," Ludovissie said.
WDC fifth-grader Charlie Bushinger had the proud honor of introducing his first cousin to his classmates. Ludovissie then personally thanked the students for the cards and letters, telling them how much their kindness meant to him. He also answered questions from students in Lynn Quincer's, Zach Martin's and Lois Schulz's classrooms. Several teachers stopped to say hello and shake Ludovissie's hand.
Ludovissie leaves March 1 for Camp Pendleton for six weeks of reconnaissance training. He told students he's very much looking forward to this training. He is the son of Bob and Kim Ludovissie of Wadena.
