From the December 11, 1992 edition of The Wayne Herald
Letters of love going to Somalia
Second and third grade students of West Elementary School in Wayne are helping to brighten the holiday season for at least one U.S. Navy man who won't be home for Christmas.
The students are classmates of third grader Andy Costa and second grader Nick Costa, whose father, Sr. Chief Dennis A. Costa, is serving in Somalia aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ranger.
"Mom sent us a note saying that Dennis wouldn't be home for Christmas and he would appreciate our letters and cards," second grade teacher Nadine Lubberstedt said.
In response, Mrs. Lubberstedt and third grade teacher Amy Hill asked the students to write Christmas cards, notes and letters
to their classmates' father in hopes of raising his spirits during this time away from his family.
In addition to Nick and Andy, Dennis is the father of five-year-old Amber and 17-month-old Lindsey.
"Dennis has no idea the kids are doing this and he's going to love it," his wife, Christine Costa, said.
