The Morgantown American Legion Post 537 hosted honored an 11-year-old boy, who received a U.S. Congressional Citation for his work with veterans.
More than 75 people gathered at the Morgantown American Legion Post to honor Alex Hummel, an 11-year-old boy with autism on Oct. 9.
Dedicating his time raising funds and awareness for military veterans, Hummel started a non-profit organization that he named the Keystone Iron Warriors.
At the age of 9 while watching commercials on television for wounded warriors, he turned to his dad, Kyle Hummel and said, “Dad, what can we do to help?”
“What would you like to do?” his dad asked.
Two years later Legion Rider President George Svencer received an email from Kyle Hummel telling him that his son Alex was going to receive a United States Congressional Citation from Rep. Patrick Meehen.
Svencer got busy spreading the word and also contacted State Representative Mark Gillen who also came out to honor Alex.
The post was proud to be a part of this unique citation and prepared the room, decorating it with balloons and streaming “God Bless America.” Meehan sent his representative Katherine Irish to preside. Alex and his parents faced the crowded room as she awarded him a Congressional Citation.
Much to everyone’s surprise, she next presented him with a citation from U.S. Speaker of the House John Boehner. The crowd cheered.
Alex was beaming and thanked everyone as a light dinner was served to the guests.
This shy boy started shaking hands with all the veterans and friends who had gathered here. His vision had come full circle to reality.
“So inspiring, keep doing it!” Svcencer said to Alex.
Since he was 9 years old his yearning to become a Marine and serve his country had led him to create awareness and do fundraising to help wounded U.S. veterans from all wars.
Alex soon became well known to the veterans. He asked his classmates to send Christmas cards, supply their needs when possible, and provide specially trained service dogs for sufferers of PTSD.
The entire Hummel family has worked hard with pig roasts, raffles, and selling t-shirts,
The Legion also made him an honorary member and presented him with gifts. A touching moment came when Candy Burkhart, Legion Rider Treasurer, gave him a challenge coin with American Legion Riders on one side and U.S. Marines on the flip side.
She hugged Alex. The coin was personal to her. It was hers in honor of her father who had been a Marine.
“You are so inspiring,” she said
“Very touching that a child this young has such a love of our soldiers,” said Post Commander Roger Jacobs.