Monrovia, California
February 22, 2019
Star Scout Willem Aponno with Monrovia Troop 66, American Legion Monrovia Post 44 and senior patrol leader, will be traveling to Washington, D.C., over the next two weeks with a select group of 8th grade students from Arcadia Christian School. This select group will have the honor of placing a wreath upon the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Recently Willem attended a lecture with his troop where SPC. Ethan Morse (Badge #548), former Tomb Sentinel, spoke to the troop about his experience as a Tomb Sentinel and the lifestyle led and experiences of being a Sentinel. This prepared Willem for his trip to Washington and gave him a deeper appreciation for the service the “Old Guard” provides to our fallen heroes.
In preparation for his trip, Willem wrote a letter to PFC Karl Edwin Weber of the United States Marine Corps, whose name is inscribed upon the Wall. This letter will be placed at the Wall upon Willem's visit. This is the letter written to Weber.
Dear Karl Edwin Weber and family,
Fifty-three years ago the United States of America became involved in an incredibly controversial conflict called the Vietnam War. We were not attacked or provoked but we stood up for the people of South Vietnam. You protected the people of South Vietnam. You helped to keep your home and other’s protected. Thanks to you, there is order and justice.
You were an honorable, brave and devoted solider and gave the ultimate sacrifice for your country, your life. Though we have never met, I greatly appreciate your service and sacrifice to our home. You did know my grandfather and we are distantly related. Therefore, this message to you is more from the heart than I can possibly express.
Your life and your experiences as a solider have forever touched the lives of those you protected as well as those who survived you. I like so many other people, look up to you and honor you.
Rest in peace…
Willem Aponno, STAR Scout, Monrovia Troop 66
American Legion – Monrovia Post 44
Arcadia Christian School
8th Grade
Willem's dedication and leadership to his troop reflects the true essence of what being a Scout means. This is just one more example of Willem's devotion to our country, military, American Legion and Scouting.
