What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than by showing some gratitude and care for those who have served our country? Several of our women’s soccer team members did just that.
Students Cierra Toledo-Muragin, Rachel Arakawa and Randi Fontes spent their Valentine’s Day visiting with hospitalized veterans at the Tripler Army Medical Center.
“My grandpa is a veteran and I know how much he enjoys talking about his life when he was in the army,” says Toledo-Muragin, a third-year nursing student from Hilo. “I really enjoyed spending Valentine’s Day with veterans who do not have any family here.”
The students first met with Carlos Santana, a community liaison from Mazie Hirono’s Office, who taught them about the importance of veterans in our community. They then spent time visiting with medics from Desert Storm and Vietnam who shared practical information and a wealth of stories.
“They were so nice and supportive and emphasized the importance of getting an education,” says Toledo-Muragin. “They were proud of us for being student-athletes and motivated us to keep going and to accomplish our goals.”