Vets Visit BHS

Vietnam Vets and BHS gather for compassion and caring

On March 31, eleven Vietnam vets visited BHS. This was the fourth visit the vets have made to the school as part of the Vietnam Unit in Junior Social Studies classes. These veterans are part of  Vietnam Veterans Inc (VVI), which is an organization for Vietnam veterans addressing the unique issues of Vietnam vets. These vets were not welcomed home like they are today and were originally barred from VFW membership. According to VVI, "Since the Vietnam War ended, thousands of Vietnam veterans have suffered due to Agent Orange exposure, PTSD, and other illnesses as a result of their service."

Vietnam Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29, so some vets come to the school around that date in order to share their experiences during and after the war, which many of them noted is an important part of their healing process. This year, Mrs. Anthony asked for extended time for the vets to speak. In previous visits, some of the vets said they didn't have enough time to speak what was in their hearts and not everyone had time to share. This year, 8th, 9th, and 10th period classes were set aside for all Juniors and the AP Gov classes to hear three separate sets of vets speak. They were provided lunch and then divided into the Board Room, 103, and the library. Students rotated through these rooms, so they could meet all the vets who came to speak. One hundred twenty students were in attendance this year. Mrs. Anthony felt both the students and the vets got something out of the experience. Anthony said, "I thought it went really well. The kids asked good questions and were extremely respectful to those vets who chose to spend their time with us today."  Some of the students also expressed the success of the event. "It was very eye opening meeting the veterans and hearing about what they went through. It was motivational and a really moving visit which helped us understand that we shouldn't take anything for granted," said Junior Grace Nesko.  

Writing Contributor: Mrs. Shaffer

Photography Contributor: Branson Jones