For the first time in 30 years, Miss America has traveled to Germany to serve as the Ambassador for America. Miss America 2009 Katie Stam had the honor to meet with our U.S. soldiers fighting abroad and thank them personally for their unwavering commitment and the personal sacrifices they have made for our country.
Last Friday, Katie was in Stuttgart, Germany to talk with high school and elementary school students, bringing her message on the importance of community service and involvement.
Miss America 2009 Katie Stam, Image: Miss America
During a visit to Patch Elementary School, the students welcomed Katie with a loud greeting: “We love you, Miss America.”
Katie told the young students about her childhood dream of one day becoming Miss America. “With self-confidence and believing in yourself, dreams can be achieved,” she said.
On Sunday, Katie visited recovering soldiers at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center’s intensive care unit, leaving photos of herself as a gift for the patients who were not awake.
“It means the world to me,” she said about spending time with the troops.
Katie also visited the Fisher House and other troops in the hospital, where they expressed their overwhelming appreciation of her visit.
“It’s people like that that make you realize why you do it. I could see why she was picked (to be Miss America),” said Army Spc. Victor Hudleston, 24, of Pebble Beach, Calif.
Katie was also on hand for the official dedication of the Illesheim Sports-field during the Spring Championship of American and Bavarian Rugby Teams. She was greeted with much enthusiasm and applause as she assisted in dedicating the field to the late John Sanchez, who managed Illesheim’s rugby team and was actively involved in organizing events for soldiers and their families.
Katie had a memorable time in Germany and she hopes to go back again to show our appreciation of the military!
