The Combat Center’s commanding general, Brig. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy III, and his wife, Alison, connected with local students and their families with a reading of Dr. Seuss at Oasis Elementary School, March 2, 2011.
“One of the things I wanted to do when I got out here was support the Morongo Unified School District any way I could,” Clardy said. “I was asked to come and do this, and I was happy come and read to the children, to show personally I was willing to contribute.”
The school staff was grateful for the help participation Clardy and his wife provided.
“I really appreciate it,” said Randy Eigner, the principal of Oasis Elementary. “It is one of those things, since we really don’t have a huge military population here, but the fact they are willing to come, it’s an honor to us.”
Everyone stressed the importance reading holds for children when they are young and as they continue to grow.
“I think it inspires them, they see how fun it can be and how much they can enjoy it,” said Alison Clardy, wife of Clardy. “It is an activity they can learn on their own and keep themselves entertained.”
“It is the way kids learn to read, it’s not just about learning the letters. The earlier kids hear people reading to them, the better they will be able to read,” Eigner said. “It is unfortunately something that seems to be missing nowadays, but it’s very important.”
During the readings the room was filled with children and the sound of laughter as they enjoyed “Oh the Places You’ll Go” and “I Can Read With My Eyes Shut.”
The night didn’t end there, but kept true to its reading theme, with a book trade available. The importance of staying actively involved with children’s development was a key issue for Clardy.
“It is important that we are all involved, whether you are the commanding general, a mother or a father, it is important to be a part of their education,” he said.