West Virginias rescued prisoner of war Jessica Lynch of Palestine, Wirt County, has been offered financial assistance to attend her home state universityWest Virginia University, President David C. Hardesty Jr. announced Wednesday, April 2, upon news of Lynchs miraculous and dramatic rescue.

Weve been thinking about and praying for U.S. Army Private First Class Jessica Lynchs safe return since her capture on March 23,Hardesty said.Weve read about her reason for joining the military, and along with her love for her country and her concern for the plight of the Iraqis, she wanted to better her life through a college education.

West Virginia University wants to provide that opportunity to our West Virginia hero, and will offer Jessica sufficient financial assistancein coordination with any other assistance she may receive from the Armyto pursue her dream of becoming a kindergarten teacherwhen she is ready, of course.

While University officials did not speak directly to the Lynch family, they made the offer through a family friend. WVU mementos and a note, tied with a yellow ribbon, were also sent to the family.

The family was notified of the rescue Tuesday night just prior to a news conference. Jessica is the daughter of Greg and Deadra Lynch, and she has two siblingsGregory, also a member of the military, and Brandi, a senior in high school.