Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I--Pulaski) said he was pleased to be part of a patriotic event today honoring both Volney Elementary and former student and service member Eric Lockwood, Petty Officer. Lockwood returned to Volney today to personally thank the school for sending him and 60 others in his unit thank you cards and care packages while serving in the military. The school gathered in an assembly for the occasion.

Lockwood lived in Fulton for 14 years before moving to North Carolina. From there he entered a career in the Navy which included deployment in Korea, Portugal, Spain, Dubai, Albania, Italy, Iraq as well as Afghanistan. During those times, he assisted in transporting troops in and out of the Middle East, assisted in humanitarian efforts that included building two schools and dental missions.

Lockwood also taught at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri at the Heavy Equipment School House, where he has spent the remainder of his Navy career. He received numerous titles and awards throughout the years of service, including six sea service awards, awards for good conduct, as well as national defense awards.

His former teachers found out where he was stationed and the school organized to write cards and send care packages to Eric. He explained how grateful he and his unit were when they received the letters, and thanked the school from the bottom of his heart.

Barclay presented Lockwood with a citation, commending his bravery and service. He also presented a citation to Volney Elementary for showing patriotism, kindness and appreciation to Eric and other service members who defend our freedoms.

Also presenting certificates today to both the school and to Eric were Sen. Patty Ritchie and County Legislator Linda Lockwood, a relative to Eric. Earl Lockwood, Eric's grandfather, helped arrange for Eric to attend the event. Town Supervisor Dennis Lockwood, also a relative, spoke of the importance Volney plays in his community and thanked Eric for his years of service.