Biglerville High School sophomore American History students recently participated in a National Park Service program that involved each student researching and sharing information about a soldier who was killed on D-Day and buried in the Gettysburg National Cemetery.
Students visited the Eisenhower National Historic Site and the cemetery, guided by park ranger Dan Vermilya. The classroom and trip activities included studies of the landings on D-Day, General Eisenhower’s leadership, and the men that he led on that “Day of Days”.
“This is an excellent opportunity for our students to use primary sources in a historic setting authentically,” said GHS American History teacher Wesley Heyser. “Dan Vermilya curated an excellent collection of source materials that creates an opportunity for our students to study these men and then recognize their sacrifices in the national cemetery.”
This is the fifth year that Heyser’s classes have participated in this program (trips did not occur in 2020 or 2021 due to the pandemic). As in past years, this field trip was made possible by the Canner Funds Classroom Grant program and the Eisenhower National Historic Site.
“I’m proud of our students for the thought and respect they showed during this experience,” said Beth Graham, high school principal. “Visiting historic sites brings history to life in a meaningful way. We’re thankful to Mr. Heyser, the park service, The Canner Funds, and everyone who helps to make this trip possible,” she said.
This sounds like a great project and a valuable learning experience. I’m sure all students enjoyed it.