Diana Patel--Veteran Profile

**Thank you to our veteran's who were gracious enough to be interviewed during our annual veteran's breakfast. We appreciate your service!

Diana Patel is an Army Veteran who enlisted in 1991 into the Army Reserves. She became commissioned in 1995 into the Army Nurse Corps, and was honorably discharged at the rank of Captain. She was stationed in different places such as Pennsylvania, New York, California, Texas and North Carolina. She and her friends passed the time by reading, playing cards and listening to music. She said the food was so-so, and learned to like southern-style grits and making “ranger pudding” from brownie mix in the MRE packs. The best things about joining the Army for her were seeing places and meeting people she wouldn’t have otherwise. Life-long friends were made, and she was even lucky enough to attend a National Prayer Breakfast one time with the Vice President, and sit next to Bob and Elizabeth Dole. She has not been to any reunions, but would like to if any are near her.

Melissa Matlock

Melissa Matlock, ELA teacher “I learn a lot by working with kids, because (especially middle schoolers) your destiny is not predetermined at this point. There are so many possibilities and there are so many people that you can become.”

Sharon Isherwood

Sharon Isherwood, French Teacher "When I was 26, my mother was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. From one day to the next, I moved back to Pittsburgh from Paris and helped care for her until her passing four years later. I have since lost my father to leukemia and have to say that I am still dealing with the loss of both of my parents. Thanks to time, friendships and the love and support of my husband, I try to focus more on the joys of life rather than the sorrows."

Jerome Koller

Jerome Koller, History Teacher "My father has always been my hero. At age 16, I was at a crossroad in my swimming career. He stated something to me during that time that has always stuck with me. He said, “You have the talent and ability to do great things. But talent and ability mean nothing if you choose not to use your gifts you've been given. You'll have the rest of your life to be mediocre. Stop being afraid of great news and give yourself a chance to see what you can truly be.” I took those words to heart and would be unafraid over the rest of my athletic career. My father had taught me a lot over the course of my life. But this small conversation instilled in me an important virtue, one that I try to encourage with my own children today."

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