MEXICO — Buddy and Chelsea McLain have had strong ties to the local vocational school.

Buddy was in the diversified occupations class instructed by Norm Jamison, and Chelsea received her high school diploma through the Region 9 adult education program.

So it only made sense that the school is serving as a drop-off/collection point for any community members who would like to donate to Chelsea and the couple’s 15-month-old son, Owen.

Pvt. Buddy McLain, a 2006 graduate of Mountain Valley High School, was killed Monday by enemy fire while on a military mission in Afghanistan.

Nancy Allen, head of the adult education program at Region 9, said donations of money, food or gifts may be dropped off at the school on River Road from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 6-8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday. Those wishing more information may call the school at 364-3764.

Melanie Babb, Region 9 administrative assistant, and Brenda Gammon, director of the school, both live in Peru where the McLain’s have a home. They will periodically drop off all donations left at the school.

Jamison said he remembers Buddy as a nice kid and good worker. Jamison said he has had three McLain brothers in his classes over the years.

Cheryl Ellis, student services coordinator at Region 9, learned from a former soldier who did not want to be named, that the military does well by the families of soldiers killed in warfare during the first few weeks, but even that help doesn’t provide everything the family may need. Any life insurance the soldier may have through his service also does not come through for many months.

Anyone who wishes to contribute to the family should attach their name, phone number and address to the donation.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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