Oakcrest High School Junior Chris Craddock recently entered and won a writing contest. Craddock, along with approximately 75 other Oakcrest students, participated in the contest titled What Is a Hero.Craddock won a $1,000 college scholarship with his entry.
Lawyer Jim Parkinson of California donated the scholarship for the contest. On February 23, 2009, Parkinson visited Oakcrest to talk to students about the Bataan Death March and his book, Soldier Slaves as part of their study of World War II. After the assembly, the students were asked to read the book they were given and participate in an essay contest.
Craddock felt strongly about this topic and thought “he could change the way people think today.” Although he was grateful for the scholarship he won, he said, “This was about getting an opportunity to say something that will benefit further generations.” Craddock thanks everyone who has helped him through this journey, and hopes his essay makes a big impact on whoever reads it.
Social Studies Teacher Doug Cervi and English Teacher Darlene Kopania chose the top six essays. The final six essays were then sent to Judge Doug Miller, a friend of Parkinson’s who lives in California, who picked the winner.
“It is impressive to see young people really understand the true nature of a hero in our veterans,” commented Cervi.
For more information contact:
Darlene A. Kopania, Journalism Department
Oakcrest High School, 909-2631
Student Contact: Liz Coulter |
