"As the son of two Coast Guard officers, John Paul has already moved many times and experienced both of his parents deploying for months at a time," said his mother, a U.S. Coast Guard Reservist. "He has exhibited strength and courage during these times by helping with his younger siblings (even without being asked), not complaining, and always befriending the new kids in his class so they feel welcome and cared for. Adjusting to a new school, new neighborhood, and making new friends every few years is not easy, but John Paul handles it with enthusiasm and determination.

John Paul volunteers in his community bagging groceries for families facing food insecurity in our local area. He also worked with his dad to create hundreds of survival bracelets out of paracord that they sold at a craft market to raise money for Troops of St. George, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering virtue in young men. This past year John Paul also participated in Wreaths Across America, honoring our fallen heroes and their sacrifices.

As the oldest of four, he regularly steps up to the plate to help with his younger siblings, especially his littlest sister, who is one year old. He will change her diaper, hold her in the pool so she can enjoy the water and teach her how to swim, and drive her around the neighborhood in the kids' jeep, which she loves. John Paul is a tenacious and bright nine-year-old boy who is unfazed by chaos and uncertainty!"