Foothill College is getting a new veterans plaza named in honor of Marine Capt. Matthew Manoukian, a Los Altos native who was killed in action in Afghanistan and was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for putting himself in harm’s way to ensure other Marines under his command made it to safety.
The Los Altos Rotary Club is heading the effort. The plaza is intended to not only provide a calming and relaxing atmosphere for the students who use the Veterans and Disability Resource Centers, but also host a living garden. Students will maintain the garden, which will present those involved with an opportunity to help teach people how they can use fresh ingredients to eat healthier.
Early estimates are on the center finishing in time for Veteran’s Day this year.
The Los Altos Rotary Club has also raised money in the past to help the Veterans Resources Center provide their veterans with a wider range of resources. “The rotarians have raised money to provide Livescribe smart pens and tablets, a laptop, printer and scanner Plantronics audio stereo headsets, and Dragon Naturally Speaking software,” said Lori Thomas, the Coordinator for Publicity and Publications. “Funds they raised have also funded a VRC staff coordinator position.”
“Our student-veterans have given their best in service to this country. Now it’s our turn. The men and women of Rotary have compassion for veterans who take an oath to keep our families safe.” Rotarian Ron Labetich said. “The Foothill College Veterans Resource Center is an outstanding resource that encourages Rotarians and other community members to contribute money, time and talent to help our student-veterans as they transition from military service to civilian life.” More than $135,000 has been raised for the plaza; the next step in the process will be to draw up plans for construction.