CW2 Joseph Berdis visited the Schwarting Elementary School on June 16th, 2010,  during an evening PTA meeting. Students, parents and faculty members were so happy to finally meet our soldier that the Student Council collected  toiletries, packaged snacks, and wrote letters to as well. The Cub Scouts of Pack 436 recycled bottles and cans to pay for the shipping of the packages collected by the Student Council. The collaboration of the Cub Scouts and the Schwarting Student Council was once again a huge success. CW2 Berdis explained that  the care packages were not only appreciated, but they were at times the only way for our soldiers to receive simple things we take for granted at home, like toothbrushes and deodorants. Baby wipes were also mentioned. It was also mentioned that if our children ever need community service, one idea is that they could  get involved with our local Veterans groups and try to see what they could do to help .

Seen in pictures with Chief Warrant Officer Joseph Berdis are various students from Schwarting, plus Mrs. Susan Faber (co PTA president and Girl Scout Co leader of a troop that collected cookies and sent them to our soldier's platoon) Also pictured, is a very happy Mrs. Camille Berdis. Everyone at Schwarting is also happy to have our soldier home!