Miss Connecticut Walks the SOS Walk For Soldiers

The holiday weekend typically brings many together for celebratory fireworks and BBQ. Early Saturday a different kind of gathering took place on the Town Green.

The SOS Walk (Support our Service Members), is a first time, no cost event that was aimed at supporting 'ALL those service members who have served, are serving and have been lost while serving in our armed forces.' 

For organizer Angelina Santa Maria, the walk idea was a way she could honor her step-brother, Army Major Sid W. Brookshire, who was killed in Iraq June 20, 2007.

"There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about people who go overseas for a job that endangers their own lives. I very much appreciate everyone here this morning. This walk is a chance to remember the memory of those killed and to show ongoing support to all our soldiers. Sid was a warm person with a big heart," said Santa Maria, with an emotional voice during opening statements.

"Everything starts with a spark, and this event serves as a reminder to take aside a moment and give back to those who are doing something for us," said Steve Pintarich, past Commander of American Legion Post 72 and Army veteran.

Pintarich informed the crowd of the Laptops For Troops program. The Computer Science Corporation (CSC) donates laptops to Post 72, who helps raise funds for laptops and webcam equipment and then ships them to deployed service members. This equipment helps to boost morale and gives soldiers a way to connect with their families at home. 

Following the walk beginning at American Legion Post 72 Hall to Derynoski School and track in rear, everyone was invited back to the Post for refreshments served by the Ladies Auxiliary. 

Morgan Amarone returned to Southington to show her support not so much for a photo opportunity, but because Southington is a town she is most familiar with having represented 'Miss Southington' before winning 'Miss Connecticut 2011' title June 25th. 

"I feel very connected to Southington and wanted to be here for this. There are so many causes that are worthy of having the spotlight on them and this is one that's important. My experience in the pageant process taught me so much about overcoming fears," said Amarone.

"It's important too, for young girls to see how being active in the community is something we all can do," Amarone emphasized. 

Both Santa Maria and Amarone share a common platform - to think about others who show their bravery every day.

"The SOS Walk helped raise $80 in donations, enough for eight laptops," said Pintarich, who works at CSC. Pintarich later reported he was making arrangements for hand delivery to soldiers getting ready to deploy.