Local Girl Scout, Phoenix Waters, chosen to attend medal of honor celebration

Lt. Col. Charles Kettles, Phoenix and her younger brother Julian. Photo courtesy of Connie Waters.

Lt. Col. Charles Kettles was recently awarded the medal of honor by President Obama for his selfless and valiant acts during the Vietnam war. Willow Run Airport and the Yankee Air Museum hosted an event to honor this local hero on Saturday, August 13th. Among the guest list were four members of the Governor's Honor Guard, a prestigious group of Girl Scouts from across the state of Michigan. Manchester's own Phoenix Waters was one of the four girls chosen to attend this private celebration.

Phoenix spent last summer on Mackinac Island with the MIGHG working directly for Governor Snyder at his residence. She was afforded the opportunity on several occasions to speak personally with the Governor. Because of her poise and maturity during this time, she was chosen to attend the celebration for Lt. Col. Kettles.

Allowed to bring along two guests, Phoenix chose her brother Julian (pictured) and her father Jeff, a retired U.S. Army Ranger. Phoenix said of Lt. Col. Kettles that, "He was so nice and I was really glad I was able to meet him. It was a great opportunity." Younger brother Julian, who got to shake Mr.Kettles hand said, "I'm never washing my hand again."

Along with participating in the MIGHG Phoenix, as well as her two younger siblings, are members of the Lenawee County Young Marines serving under GYSGT Joe Steveson. Phoenix is an 8th grader at Manchester Middle School and enjoys wrestling, football, softball, and hunting. She is also an active member of the middle school Builders Club and SRSLY.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.