Tristan Speed is a teen on a mission. He wants to help veterans.
Speed says, "I was first inspired to help veterans after I read a book called, “The Heart and The Fist.” It was written by a man named Eric Greitens. In his book, Greitens mentioned that, after serving several years in the Navy Seals, he wanted to create an organization that helped wounded veterans contribute to their community, particularly if they had lost limbs or sustained other kinds of disabling wounds. He chose to do this because many wounded veterans feel useless, as they can no longer serve their country on the battlefield. Through Greitens’ organization, The Mission Continues, wounded veterans can still contribute to their community, and can be seen as assets, not as burdens. I was inspired by Greitens’ story and his charity and I wanted to help.
The rising homeschooled high school senior heard about the 5K race that Dan Gaita helped put together in Bethel last month. Tristan approached Dan and asked, "I wanted to see if I could perform in front of his gym during the Bethel Sidewalk Day. Dan was very supportive and wanted to help. I learned that Dan has a service initiative, too – Operation Vet Fit – that helps veterans with PTS (post-traumatic stress) and I thought I could help raise contributions for that effort as well."
Tristan has beens studying the classical guitar for over twelve years. "My parents enrolled me in the Suzuki method at the Suzuki school in Newtown, CT. I started learning classical guitar when I was age 4 and I’ve been playing ever since."
Tristan will be performing on the sidewalk on Saturday between 11-2 in front of Private Studio at 120 Greenwood Avenue, Bethel.
If you want to contact him, they can email him at:
tristanspeed@gmail.com
