Damen Chraston shows off his Flat Stanley and letter from Germany

Third grader Damen Chraston was part of Mrs. Mrzywka’s classes that created and sent out Flat Stanleys earlier this school year. While most students sent their characters around the United States, Damen’s visited his uncle’s military base in Germany.

CH (CPT) Michael Scholes, Damen’s uncle, took care of Flat Stanley while he was on base and commended Damen for dressing him in a perfect military uniform. Flat Stanley was sent back to Albion with a letter and an Army Commendation Medal. The letter reads, in part:

  1. Having received a field commission to 1LT, Flat Stanley has contributed greatly to the overall success of the 1-3 Attack Battalion in their continued and ongoing efforts to maintain readiness and deter Russian aggression.

  1. Recognition: For exceptionally meritorious service while assigned as a Flat Stanley Paper Liaison to the 1-3 Attack Battalion. 1LT Flat Stanley’s leadership, hard work, and dedication greatly enhanced the overall success of the Battalion’s mission. His actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1-3 Attack Battalion, 12 Combat Aviation Brigade, 7th Army Training Command, and the United States Army. For his actions, and in acknowledgment of his service, he is sent home with an Army Commendation Medal.

Many photos and videos were sent back throughout the fall and winter of Flat Stanley on the base, helping teach all the students about the military and a different part of the world. Flat Stanley is a children’s story book that has been adapted to enrich students’ learning of different communities and cultures.