Injured Mass. Soldier Honored By American Security Council Foundation

On Friday July 15, 2011, American Security Council Foundation board members recognized Lance Corporal Evan Reichenthal of Princeton, MA and a member of 9th Marine Infantry Regiment, Camp LeJeune NC for his selfless service to the United States of America. The event took place at Walter Reed Army Medical Center where LCpl. Reichenthal is recovering from serious wounds received in Afghanistan in January 2011.

A plaque was presented in appreciation for his “sacrifice and selfless service to the United States of America which epitomize the motto of the American Security Council Foundation, ‘Peace Through Strength’.”  The plaque was presented by ASCF Chairman Brigadier General Donald B. Smith of NY (USA, ret.), ASCF President and CEO Dr. Henry A. Fischer of FL, ASCF Director Sergeant Major of the Army (USA, ret) Jack Tilley of FL, Senior Advisory Board Member and Marine Corps Veteran Xavier I Piedra of Sherborn, MA, ASCF Director of Operations and US Army Veteran Gary James of FL, and ASCF Director H. Daniel Corrigan of FL.

“There are times when freedom isn’t free,” Gen. Smith said on presenting the award. “We have to fight to defend our way of life, and this can unfortunately cost blood, sweat, and tears.”  He said that LCpl. Reichenthal was “a Marine and an American hero. Take that from an Army guy.”  Sr. Advisory Board Member Xavier Piedra also presented a letter from US Senator Scott Brown (MA).  The Senator thanked LCpl. Reichenthal for his courageous service to the United States and wished him a speedy recovery.  “Get Well” cards were also delivered from well-wishers across Massachusetts including a 2nd grade class in Stoughton, a daycare center in Hudson, American Legion Post 209 in Dover, Middlesex Lodge A.F &A.M of Framingham, and Aurora Lodge A.F.&A.M of Fitchburg.

The foundation members also had the privilege of visiting twelve other wounded Soldiers and Marines currently being treated at Walter Reed.  All the men were in good spirits and very appreciative of the ASCF’s outreach, as well the opportunity to trade stories regarding their military experiences.  They were moved by the outpouring of support from  Americans they have never met.  Most of these Soldiers and Marines want to return to their units and find a way to continue to serve their country, and the military is activity working to accommodate them by changing their occupation specialties to non-combat arms opportunities.