Scouts take hospitalized soldiers on outing

It's not unusual for people in the community to do things for the veterans and active-duty soldiers at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, but they usually aren't as young as the volunteers who showed up Dec. 3.

"We've never had a group of 7-year-olds before," said Doug Mitchell, a therapy supervisor at the medical center.

The eight Tiger Cub Scouts were 6- and 7-year-old first-graders from Riverside Elementary School and River Ridge Elementary School.

They treated about 10 active-duty rehabilitation patients to a pizza party and a trip to an Augusta Lynx hockey game. They also brought in several PlayStation games.

"We found out about the active-duty soldiers who are here," said Kerry Brisley, one of the leaders for Den 15, Pack 686. "As a veteran, I wanted to do something good."

Biomet, the company Brisley works for, donated $600 for the party, tickets and video games. Some of the Cub Scouts brought their own video games and gave them to the soldiers, he said.

As part of their therapy, active-duty military patients have activities outside the hospital about once a week, but any additional outings are welcome, officials said.

Brisley said he asked the soldiers what they wanted most, and a trip out of the hospital topped the list.

Brisley said the Augusta Lynx were extremely cooperative, providing discounted tickets and setting up a third-period locker room tour and an opportunity for the group to meet the team.

The soldiers seemed to enjoy the children's visit, Brisley said.

"It gives you a warm feeling. It's always good to see the children donate their time," said Sgt. Mark Donnald, who has been at the hospital since July for injuries he received in Iraq.

The Scouts also were excited about the event, Brisley said. Evan Masella said he participated "because I get to meet Army people."