Newport -
During summer vacation, most teenagers are hanging out by the pool and enjoying their freedom, but some local teens are donating their time for American heroes.
Nokomis Junior ROTC students are raising money for the Wounded Heroes Foundation at Bud's Shop N' Save in Newport.
Cadet Staff Sargent, Felix Thibodeau said, "Some of the stories you hear from these veterans are heartbreaking, they're not getting the recognition they deserve."
The Wounded Heroes Foundation gives financial aid to vets who have been 100% disabled by Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Veteran and Bud's Shop and Save Manager, Bruce Bowden said, "I'm a veteran myself and it gives me great pleasure to see men interested in serving our country."
This is the 2nd JROTC funraiser this year. In February they raised over $2,700 for local veterans. This time they hope to raise $10,000 or more.
"Every penny of that is going to local Maine veterans," said Thibodeau.
They say their goal can help 100 struggling families.
Thibodeau continued, "$100 may not seem like a lot, but it goes a long way. Especially now, $100 can save a person from sinking or swimming."
This cause is close to the cadet's hearts.
"I also felt there just wasn't enough being done, especially for our local veterans. People come up to us and ask why are we doing this, it's just because no one else is, Cadet Thibodeau said.
The donations will be given to vets as gift cards to help with food shopping and every day expenses.
On Saturday and Sunday, August 18th and 19th, the JROTC will be outside of Sam's Club on Haskell Road from 7am - 7pm.
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