Deer Park Students Skype with U.S. Army Specialist Serving in Iraq

Students from John F. Kennedy Intermediate School recently connected through Skype with Deer Park graduate and United States Army Specialist 4 Andrew Farquharson, who is currently serving in Iraq.

Farquharson, whose younger brother Matthew is a student at the school, spoke with the kids about his deployment, life in Iraq and general military facts.

Marie Finley's class began a letter-writing campaign, sending messages of thanks to the men and women of the armed forces, local firefighters, first responders and police officers in honor of 9/11 and Veterans Day. Specialist Farquharson wanted to personally thank students on behalf of U.S. Army 6/8 Cavalry Squadron, 3rd Infantry Division, who were recipients of the letters overseas.

Farquharson enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 2010 and attended basic training at Fort Knox, Ky. before being assigned to Fort Stewart, Ga. in May 2010. He was deployed to Ninewa Provinice, Iraq from July 2010 to June 2011 and has received awards for bravery and tactical skills, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Sniper Selection, Good Conduct Service Medal and Member of the Order of the Combat Spur.

Photo and information provided by Syntax.