Midn. 4⁄C Traci Willemse’s family lost their home in Running Springs, Calif., to the ravaging wildfires that destroyed more than a half million acres and forced more than one million residents to evacuate their homes. Upon hearing the news, Midn. 2⁄C Greg Pavich came up with an idea to sponsor a company collection for Willemse’s family.

''As upperclassmen, we are expected to take care of those we are in charge of,'' said Pavich. ''We got a great response from the company and collected a lot more than we expected. I think we really showed that we are prepared to do what we’ve got to do to take care of one another.''

The 130 Midshipmen of 19th Company collected $2,700 for Willemse’s family.

''It shows how tight of a bond you develop with people in such a short amount of time,'' said Willemse. ''This was a very large and kind gesture and I was shocked when I found out. I feel close with my company and it is nice knowing I’ve got people looking out for me should the unfortunate occur.''

Members of 19th Company presented the donation to Willemse during a noon meal formation. Willemse sent the money back to her family where they have made use of it to help replace many of their needed goods lost in the fire.

''This is a testament to the type of Midshipmen we really have in 19,'' said 19th Company Senior Enlisted Leader AEC(AW) Molly Agundez. ''Looking out for one another, especially looking out for their underclass, is important. They really came through and I hope they all carry this experience with them after graduation and commissioning.''