A former student visited his little sister's preschool class to say goodbye before starting basic training with the U.S. Army Guard. The students gave the soldier cards and a banner with good luck messages. He taught the class how to do a proper push up. While nervous about the challenges of training, he is excited for the experience and benefits of serving, including help with college tuition.

1. Former student visits WLB pre-k class before basic training
May 28, 2015 - As Memorial Day celebrations wind down and we remember those who have
fought for our country, a local family prepares their son to do the same.
On June 2nd, eighteen-year-old Tyler Stankavich of Lincoln will ship out to Fort Leonard Wood,
Missouri for ten weeks of U.S. Army Guard basic training.
Wednesday, Stankavich paid a visit to his little sister Ashten’s preschool class on their last day
of school at West-Lincoln Broadwell.
In Mrs. Maxwell’s classroom, the same place Stankavich was 13 years ago, Ashten and the rest
of her classmates presented him with going-away cards and an American flag banner with words
of encouragement, thanks, and student signatures written on the back.
Stankavich had a gift of his own to give to the class, handing out mini American flags upon his
arrival.
The children were thrilled by the flags, playfully waving them around throughout the visit. They
also appeared excited to see Stankavich all dressed up in his uniform.
The children gathered around Stankavich and were prompted by Mrs. Maxwell to ask questions.
Many of the children were eager to share their thoughts, some proudly informing everyone that
their parents and grandparents have also served.
Near the end of the question portion of the visit, Mrs. Maxwell asked the children if any of them
want to grow up to be just like Tyler. One child raised their hand, while a little boy yelled, “No
thanks!”
Stankavich also mentioned to the kids how it was going to be tough to wake up at 5 a.m. every
day and that he was in for lots of exercise.
After they were all out of questions, Stankavich amused the kids by dropping down and showing
them how to do a push up correctly.
“I’m kind of nervous, but am really looking forward to it. I’m excited to just go and enjoy the
experience and I’m nervous because I’m just waiting for that first time I mess up and a drill
sergeant chews me out,” explains Stankavich.
Tyler is the son of Michael and Heather Gaule of Lincoln and has three siblings, Tristen,
Zachary, and Ashten.
When asked how she felt about her son’s departure, Heather replied, “As a mom, well I couldn’t
be more proud. The drive to the armory will be hard…We plan to have a mother/son day on
Monday and golf.”
After being asked how she felt about her brother going away, five-year old Ashten replied, “I’m
sad,” and wanted him to know that she loved him.

2. Tyler’s family has a history of serving, his step-father being a marine and grandfather an army
veteran, but that’s not the only reason he decided to enlist.
“Coming out of high school I knew the National Guard would be a good way to pay for college,
plus I think it will give me better discipline…I didn't want to go straight into working a full time
job. The guard seemed like the best option.”
The afternoon seemed enjoyable and beneficial for both the kids and future soldier.
Stankavich will return to Lincoln after completing basic training, but will report back to Fort
Leonard Wood, Missouri for Advanced Individual Training in January.
If you or someone you know is interested in the National Guard, visit
http://www.nationalguard.com/eligibility for more information.