RBR Students Learn About Soldiers' Lives

Red Bank Regional’s (RBR) Forensic Social Science class is a keystone course in the school's Academy of Humanities and Social Sciences.

The course challenges students to think critically about issues of morality and to apply these issues to current and historical events. Just before school ended, the students in this class were studying a unit on global issues, and, specifically, America’s involvement in foreign policy initiatives.

To bring an eye-witness perspective to their classroom, RBR social studies teacher April Chichelo invited some U.S. marines to visit the class.

Captain Simpson, of Rochester, NY, Sgt. Riley, of Georgia, Sgt. Baker, of Mississippi, and Staff Sgt. Ramos, of Keyport, NY, shared their experiences while on tour in Iraq and Afghanistan. All are currently assigned to active duty in New Jersey.

While the soldiers talked about their combat role, with details given in a prepared power point presentation, they also discussed their US ambassador role.

This included opening schools for children, opening hospitals for much needed healthcare, ensuring fair elections and training police and the military so they can defend themselves when America exits this chapter of its history.

The soldiers related stories that gave the students insight into their daily life, fears and most rewarding experiences.

“They were very personable and comical while telling their experiences but at the same time very informative," said RBR student Amanda Umbehauer. "It was interesting to learn about the type of fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. Also, it was cool to learn about how the Marines opened schools and clinics for the citizens of Iraq.”

The kids even were able to try an authentic MRE (meals-ready-to-eat). That experience coupled with the stories of the intense Middle Eastern heat, poor sleeping conditions, among other things, gave the students a high appreciation of our military’s sacrifices to protect our freedoms.