November 11, 2015

Dear Chick,

Please accept my sincere thanks and appreciation for the wonderful Veterans Day program you and your colleagues organized and hosted this morning. I was simply overwhelmed by the quality of the event—everything from the reception I and the other veterans received, to the students’ comments, the band, and the special speakers. The program surpassed all the expectations I had when I received the invitation to attend.

I’d like to note two specific aspects of my experience. First, the “mail call” idea was simply brilliant, and the letters from the students will be treasured for the rest of my life.

Second, I was nearly brought to tears by a student in Ms. Schuh’s 9^th grade history class where I was a part of the panel of veterans.  At the close of our time, Ms. Schuh asked her students if anyone had any more questions.  A young man raised his hand and then asked, “May I shake your hands?”  He proceeded to walk to us and, as he shook our hands, he said, “Thank you for your service.” This was not something I would expect from a 14 or 15 year old.

Chick, you are to be commended for your work to reinvigorate the William Tennent Alumni Association. You and your colleagues are doing a great job of assisting Dennis and the Staff to keep a positive spirit alive for the school we love.

Please thank those who assisted you in organizing the ceremony and let them know how meaningful it was to this “old soldier.”

Sincerely,

Ken Kastle