Patricia Pohlhaus, Air Force Dependent

Patricia “Trish” Pohlhaus has learned dedication, honor and sacrifice through the lives of her retired step-father Charles Moody and brother Chris Pohlhaus who collectively served in the Army, Air Force and Marine Corps for 29 years.

They both opened her eyes to see injustice, hate and discrimination towards underprivileged communities. They encouraged her hands to work to bring comfort for the desolate and impoverished families through food banks, homeless ministries, international care projects and soup kitchens. They inspired her steps to move toward a more tolerant, accepting and constructive world.

With their support, Trish is attending Mississippi State University studying special education and theater. She longs for her eyes to see equal opportunity for all and fair treatment to the special needs community. After graduation, Trish wants to open a theater program for special needs kids – a place with a handicap-accessible stage, specialized roles and teaching to ensure every child has an opportunity to be a star.

Theater involvement produces skills in communication, socialization, teamwork and builds confidence, encouragement and commitment – skills that Trish wants to provide to those in the special needs and disabled communities.