Arapahoe is Thankful for Artie Guerrero and His Story.
November 21, 2018
On Friday, November 9, Arapahoe students took part in an annual Veterans Day celebration by listening to Artie Guerrero, a Vietnam vet, share his inspiring story with our school. Artie has been advocating for Veteran funding and health since he was wounded in 1967.
“I made a promise to my radioman, who died in my arms, that I would advocate for Veterans for the rest of my life- and I’ve done that.” he says.
In his career, Artie has earned titles such as President of the Paralyzed Veterans of America and President of the Coalition of Colorado Concerned Veterans. While he has contributed a great deal successfully to his community, Artie realizes that the fight for Veteran assistance isn’t over. For example, our Veterans Administration hospital, which Artie aided in building, still lacks two critical units- a post-traumatic stress branch and a nursing home.
“I’ve started to pass the baton to the younger generation now,” says Artie. “‘I’ve decided that the youngsters need to carry that energy that it takes to advocate.”
Arapahoe carries that energy in our efforts throughout the week before and after November 11th. Last week, Link Crew hosted a letter writing as an opportunity for students to gather and acknowledge those who have served as a conclusion to Veterans Week. However, we at Warrior Media advise you to continue honoring our vets. Whether that’s by gathering, volunteering, advocating, or simply listening to someone’s experiences.
When asked about what else inspires him to come share his story, Artie said that “it’s a pleasure to come and help educate American history classes what they should know. Not just take for granted the freedom that we have here in the United States.”
With Thanksgiving around the corner, perhaps take a moment to honor those who, as Artie said, “paid the ultimate price or half of that ultimate price.”
To hear more about Artie and his story, click the video above.
For more information on Veteran organizations mentioned in the video and article, click the links below.
Concerned Veterans for America
