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Jul 28, 2006 11:30 pm US/Eastern
9/11 Widow Changing Lives For The Better
by Angela Russell
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
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Leroy Homer Junior pictured with his widow, Melodie
CBS
A woman who lost her husband on September 11th is trying to raise awareness about a foundation that is slowly changing young lives.
Leroy Homer Junior was the first officer on United flight 93, the plane that went down in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
His wife created a foundation in his memory and as
CBS 3's Angela Russell reports, it is now cultivating the future generation of pilots.
When Melodie Homer is not busy with her two children, she spends time on a cause close to her heart.
"We're trying to put a positive spin on what happened to our family," explained Melodie.
On September 11th, 2001, her husband Leroy served as the first officer on United flight 93 which crashed into a Pennsylvania field.
Leroy Homer Junior had a passion for flying and now, the foundation created by his wife, helps aspiring aviators with scholarships.
A pilot license can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 dollars.
A flight instructor CBS 3 spoke to at the Flying W in Medford, New Jersey says this type of program is a great opportunity.
Melodie Homer is busy preparing for a fundraiser to benefit the foundation.
It is a community yard sale and all of the proceeds will help a young person without the resources to earn a pilot's license.
"These foundations are a legacy for people who left us that days, we want to keep their memory alive -- and help in a positive way," said Melodie.
The yard sale is this Sunday from 8 am until 1pm at Cherokee High School in Marlton New Jersey.
Another fundraiser is set for August 22nd at Pleasant Valley Miniature Golf.
The scholarships are reserved for people who are serious about pursuing careers in aviation.
So far there are 9 recipients and some have gained entry in the United States Air Force Academy and the United States Naval Academy.
For more information, visit
Leroy Homer Jr. Foundation or call
800-388-1647 .
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