Military veterans share experiences with Hall-Dale High students

Four military veterans were invited to an event Dec. 15 at Hall-Dale High School. From left are Mark Tinkham, Hall-Dale High School principal; James Prindle, corporal U.S. Marines, Desert Storm, and manager of Warrior PATHH (Progressive Alternative Training for Helping Heroes) with the Travis Mills Foundation; Chris Merrill, command chief warrant officer, Maine Army National Guard; Richard Knight, Korean War U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant; and Richard H. LaBelle, World War Navy Veteran, and his son Alan. Submitted photo

FARMINGDALE — Students from Hall-Dale High School engaged with and learned from the experiences of four distinguished military veterans on Dec. 15. This event provided a platform for high school students to gain firsthand insights into the challenges and triumphs of those who have served in the armed forces.

The event aimed to bridge the generational gap and foster a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and contributions made by veterans. Students heard personal narratives from four veterans, each representing different branches of the military and diverse backgrounds, according to a news release from Kelly Byron, education liaison.

The veterans included Richard H. LaBelle, World War II Navy; Richard Knight, Korean War U.S. Marine Corp lieutenant; Chris Merrill, command chief warrant officer, Maine Army National Guard; and James Prindle, corporal U.S. Marines, Desert Storm, and manager of Warrior PATHH (Progressive Alternative Training for Helping Heroes) with the Travis Mills Foundation.

These veterans brought a wealth of knowledge and diverse experiences. Their stories provided students with a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and the importance of community service, Byron noted

The event included a reception with student leaders as well as an interactive session that allowed students to ask questions directly and engage in meaningful conversations with the veterans.

According to Mark Tinkham, principal of Hall-Dale High School, “We are thrilled to offer our students the chance to connect with these remarkable individuals who have selflessly served our country. This initiative aligns with our commitment to providing a well-rounded education that goes beyond textbooks, instilling values of respect, gratitude, and a deeper understanding of the world.”