Monroe K of C raises $2,900 for Marine injured in Iraq

Monroe - Members of the Monroe Knights of Columbus spent last weekend answering the question many Americans have: How can I help? The Monroe council held a Daytona 500 fundraiser for U.S. Marine Sgt. Eddie Ryan of Ellenville, who was severely injured while fighting in Iraq and is now recovering from his injuries at Helen Hayes Hospital in Haverstraw. He has been awarded the Purple Heart for his efforts. The event and other fundraising activities in the last few weeks have so far netted $2,900. Sunday’s fundraiser was organized by 4th Degree Knight Erwin Benz and included an appearance from the Marine’s father, Chris Ryan, who reported on his son’s improving health. The money will be used to renovate the Ulster County home where the young Marine grew up. The family expects it will cost about $90,000 to complete the job. More fundraisers are in the works, as are requests for government grants. When asked why Monroe area residents want to help out someone in need in Ellenville, Benz said this: “I think Eddie’s story has captivated a lot of people in the Hudson Valley. Whether you are from Monroe, Middletown or Minisink, people I talk to ask me, ‘How can I help?’” “Sgt. Eddie Ryan fought for our country to protect our freedoms and rights for our citizens to live in the home of their choice. A soldier who fought for the freedoms that we take for granted was severely injured and who was awarded the Purple Heart cannot go home due to much needed renovations to the house to make it accessible. Now it is time for us as a people of not one town or county, but of the Hudson Valley to come together and help Eddie go home. “It is quite as simple as that.” For more information on Ryan, visit the Web site: www.helpeddieryan.com to find out more. Erwin also can be contacted at 845-234-5323 for information on upcoming fundrasing efforts.