Taft 7-12 held a "Take a Vet to School" event for juniors on November 7 in partnership with Spectrum and the History Channel. Coordinated by Taft's College and Career Coordinator Sam Escalante, the annual program gives students firsthand accounts of service and sacrifice to help inform post-high school decisions.
The event featured three elected officials — Oregon State Senator Dick Anderson, State Representative David Gomberg, and Lincoln City Mayor Susan Wahlke. They were joined by James Burke, retired U.S. Marine Corporal; Roger Robertson, retired U.S. Army E5 Specialist; Bob Portwood, retired Army; and Frank King, a 103-year-old retired U.S. Marine and WWII veteran.
Veterans spoke about their time serving their country, sharing real-life experiences from their enlistment, boot camp, and forming bonds with their fellow service members. Frank talked about patriotism and love of our country, something that spurred him and others of his generation to enlist during WWII.
A common theme among all panel members was encouraging the junior class members to volunteer in their communities and always vote once they are eligible.
"Voting is not just a privilege... it's a duty," said King, adding that the students in the room will help shape our nation's future. Thank you to all the panelists for a memorable event!