Tenable. Gourmand. Neophyte. Truant. Just a few words a Middlesex student can define and use in a sentence, thanks to the infamous Words Book. However, a group of Marines is well versed in the world of Words words as well, thanks to 2nd Lt. Barrett Moorhouse, a 2008 graduate of Middlesex. A short time ago, Barrett asked Middlesex to send along the book in an effort to teach his Marines the words he was tested on throughout his high school career. Not only would it be beneficial to the young boys he thought, but it would also provide a nice distraction from the intense nature of their work.
A few weeks back, when Barrett requested an SAT book for his boys, it was a no-brainer. Most MX seniors had taken the SAT for the last time, and College Counselor Matt DeGreeff didn’t think twice before handing over a book. Barrett and his Marines deployed over Thanksgiving on the 31st MEU (Marine Expeditionary Unit) in the Southern Pacific for seven months. During their time, Barrett hopes to run a prep course for the boys, so they can take the test upon their return from duty.
It is no surprise that the Middlesex community wanted to do more for such a worthy group, so when Barrett suggested holiday cards, the Community Service Officers jumped at the chance to get the entire school involved. On Wednesday December 9, 70 students, faculty, and faculty children gathered in Ware Hall to write cards to Barrett and his unit. Nearly 70 holiday cards will be sent to the group of Marines. One faculty member described the holiday card extravaganza as a “revolving door of participants” eager and willing to write cards to those who risk their lives to keep us safe. The packed room showed not only the true Middlesex spirit of giving back, but also the dedication students have to alumni of the school.
The entire Middlesex community wishes 2nd Lt. Barrett Moorhouse ’08 and his Marines a safe deployment and the happiest of holidays!