Peninsula Moves!

By Christine Dunn, @VtownCommuter

SamTrans Data Technician Amy O’Campo is going to miss decorating the Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno for Veteran’s Day this year. That’s because O’Campo has been invited to lay a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Solider at Arlington National Cemetery.  The special invitation includes a visit to the White House for breakfast with Vice President Joe Biden.  “I don’t have to climb over the fence,” said a very excited O’Campo, “I have an invitation.”

O’Campo has been invited to perform the honor in recognition of her work as President of the San Mateo County Blue Star Moms and Fourth Vice President of the national organization. The volunteer organization, dedicated to supporting troops in combat zones and veterans, is well known for the care packages they send to soldiers overseas. The boxes are packed with everything from snacks and sun screen to cross word puzzle books. The Blue Star Mom’s mission also includes assistance to troops recovering at Veteran’s Affairs hospitals.  To generate funds for their efforts, the local organizations hold fundraising events, such as pancake breakfasts.

O’Campo, a member of the organization since 2010, was inspired by her son’s service in the military. In addition to her work with the Blue Star Moms, O’Campo also is a member of Avenue of the Flags, which supports Golden Gate National   Cemetery’s efforts to display and maintain the Avenue of Flags on federal holidays and sponsors the programs on Veterans Day and Memorial Day. A subcommittee of the organization places wreaths on veteran’s graves to honor them at Christmas time.

O’Campo will be traveling to Washington the weekend before Veteran’s Day. She is planning to spend the weekend sight-seeing in The Capital. On Veteran’s Day she will go to the White House for breakfast with Biden before being taken to Arlington for the ceremony.

As a Blue Star Mom, O’Campo is required to dress all in white. Finding the right outfit during the winter season has been a challenge. “I found the white dress and the white coat. Finding white shoes this time of year was difficult.” When it came to white gloves, O’Campo was flummoxed until her son brought home white gloves for his Santa Claus suit – they were a perfect fit!  O’Campo has her outfit, sitting in the corner of her bedroom, ready to go. As excited as she is, she may not even need to take a plane.