Michigan's Insurance Company
Other States
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Scott Gillespie
Sacred Heart Academy
Mt. Pleasant
America & Me Essay Contest
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Seventh Place Essay
Scott Gillespie
Sacred Heart Academy
Mt. Pleasant
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Heroes are people who teach you about strength, courage, character, and integrity. They are people to admire and hope to become. Big or small, these people inspire us to be better, to live bigger, and to do more for others. I know what heroes are and what they accomplish because Louis Maraldo, my great grandfather, is my personal hero.
My Grandpa Louie was born in 1911, in Orngeze, Italy. Educated by priests, his father pulled him from his studies to help him work on a mosaic artist job in the United States. At the age of 16, Grandpa Louie took the long boat ride to America with his father. For months they labored. One day, his father returned to Italy, leaving his teenager son behind with one message: "go and learn."
Louis Maraldo went and learned…a lot! With hard work and determination, he learned the language, the terrazzo trade, and the way the United States conducted business. He became a U.S. citizen, fought for our country in World War II, married, and had two children. He faced discrimination, built his own business, and became one of the country's most important terrazzo contractors. No matter how he had to struggle, he held his head high in determination at being successful. He loved American things, particularly the Detroit Tigers, the Detroit Red Wings, and pumpkin pie. From Italian immigrant to successful American businessman, his story is an inspiration.
Last spring, I was a top four finalist in Michigan's Pepsi Pitch, Hit, and Run competition. I had the privilege of traveling to Comerica Park in Detroit. I started playing baseball later than most kids and struggled with the game for a while. It was my hard work that got me so far in the competition. Having my named called out and walking on the field in front of thousands of people, I thought of how proud my Grandpa Louie would be of my success and determination. He is my reason and my responsibility to strive and to do my best always.
My Grandpa Louie died when I was only six years old. Although he isn't with me anymore, he still inspires me. That is what is so great about heroes. Their impact on people can last a lifetime and more. It's okay he's gone. His life is an example. He's still a hero helping me every day of my life. My vow is to always work hard and succeed, even when it is difficult or it seems impossible. I know I can do this because I once knew a very special man who did it, too.
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