CLARKSVILLE, TN − Distinguished and accomplished students, Matea Brown, a senior at West Creek High School, and Kayla Saelens, a junior at Clarksville High School, have both received highly prestigious national honors in recognition of their exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to community and country.
In a ceremony of great significance, LTC Walleon Bobo of DAI Memphis presented both Matea and Kayla with the Military Order of the Purple Heart National Youth Leadership Award. This rare and honorable award was bestowed “For Meritorious and Demonstrated Leadership in Service to Our Nation and Your Community” — a true testament to their unwavering character, patriotism, and commitment to excellence.
Matea was honored with this distinguished award for her inspiring service project entitled ‘Reconstruction of the Coyote Café,’ which transformed the space into a welcoming haven for individuals facing mental health challenges, offering comfort and support throughout the school day, especially during the often-overlooked lunch period.
Kayla received this distinguished award for her project entitled, ‘Little Beats for Little Feet,’ where she thoughtfully designed and built musical instruments to foster not only the cognitive and motor skill development of young children, but also to encourage connection, creativity, and the joy of friendship through shared musical experiences…