Sunday, April 8, 2007

The Coolest Lesson Ever

www.snopes.com/glurge/nodesks.asp
I read about the coolest lesson on this blog. Give it a look. When I taught the Vietnam War to my classes I struggled with how to personalize it for the students. They think wars are video games. I decided to show them my Vietnam Service Medal. I hesitated to do it because I didn't want them to think I looked at myself as some kind of war hero. They were impressed.

I want them to realize that their freedom of speech and rights as American citizens came about and are preserved because soldiers fought and died for those rights. It's a lesson that most Americans seem to have forgotten.

That's why I thank every military person I see. I remember when military personnel weren't too highly thought of. It wasn't a pleasant time.

1 comment:

ms-teacher said...

My dad retired from the Navy after 22 years of service, part of that time was in the late 60's and early 70's. I have vivid memories of the disrespect my dad received when he would go out in public in his uniform.

I've enjoyed reading your blog and hope you'll continue!