Among those serving in Afghanistan is Massapequa native and U.S. Army Major Tom O'Connor. While growing up in Massapequa, Major O'Connor gradated from John P. McKenna Elementary School and Massapequa High School.

He then attended West Point Academy and joined the U.S. Army.

Major O'Connor is currently serving a second tour of duty commanding a unit of 500 soldiers in Afghanistan.

Thanks to the efforts of Mr. O'Brien and Mrs. Mollica, friends of Major O'Connor and teachers at McKenna, the school has adopted this battalion. Each month a different grade will be asked to bring in donations of various items that will be sent to our heroes overseas.

A few weeks ago, John P. McKenna Elementary School held an assembly to commemorate the adoption of Major O'Connor's battalion.