Catherine Bart

SCARBOROUGH — Four students enrolled in the culinary program at the Wentworth School received a heartfelt “thank you” card from Sumner L. Thompson, a 95-year-old veteran who served in the Pacific during World War II in November. He expressed his appreciation for the students delivering cupcakes for all the residents of the Maine Veterans Home in Scarborough.

“I want to thank you for baking cupcakes for us veterans. So thoughtful of you all,” Thompson said.

Sam Cassellius, Molly Copeland, Josh Demers and Autumn Fraser, with help from teacher Peter Esposito and baker Tai Shao, made and decorated over 150 cupcakes that each adorned a candied American flag to represent the veterans. Once finished, the cupcakes were delivered to the residents.

Class instructor Esposito received a call from Steve Thibideau the community outreach officer in Scarborough who wanted to do this for the veterans. Esposito decided it was a great idea for the students to be involved in and also a learning experience in the topic of quick breads. Each week, during their three days of culinary instruction, the students learn about a different food and research recipes that they make and share.

“The students enjoyed this special project and have requested to do another,” said Transition Specialist Scot MacDonald. “The two occasions discussed so far have been Valentine’s Day and Memorial Day. I believe they are considering (cooking for) a different elderly living facility for the next one.”

In his letter, Thompson expressed how much he enjoyed and loved his military service that started at the age of 17 when he joined the Navy.

“I later joined the Coast Guard and retired from the U.S. Coast Guard,” Thompson said. “I loved my military service. I hope you will study United States History and appreciate how fortunate you are to live in our beautiful country.”