"Bring the Museum to You"

Bryce Rhodes, a junior Computer and Office Technology student from Neshannock, is an impressive young man. Focused on the task at hand, driven to learn more, and as kind as the day is long, Bryce is certainly making his mark at LCCTC.

Impressed by his love of history during his sophomore year, Mrs. Heasley suggested to him that he return in his 2nd year to give a presentation on the Vietnam War for her World History classes. Even though he isn’t getting a grade — heck, he’s not even a student in her class, Bryce accepted her invitation and delivered.

As Mrs. Heasley introduced Bryce, she noted that this was a “museum come to you” event, and Bryce didn’t disappoint!

Dressed in an authentic Vietnam-War-era uniform, he put together a slide show complete with short video clips, protest music of the time, and accompanying props. He answered curiosity with fact and added detail — keeping it real. He kept his audience engaged, and in the end, there was a greater appreciation for those who served during that time.

Inspired by a close family friend and Vietnam veteran, Bryce talked about the history that led up to the war, about what it was like to have been called by the draft, and about what it would have been like to experience guerrilla warfare as a tunnel rat — one of the most dangerous jobs for soldiers to experience.

Bryce took the class on a timeline of events, describing as he moved from slide to slide. One moment that made a big impact was watching a video of a young soldier who hadn’t been home for a long time. This soldier had a wife at home and a three-month-old child whom he never met, but he was thankful for the letters he might get each week.

The soldier in the video stated, “I won’t be home this Christmas, but I hope to be home next Christmas.” Mrs. Heasley asked, “Did he survive?”

“Three days after this video was taped,” answered Bryce, “he was killed in action.” At this reply, you could have heard a pin drop.

The class listened to the lyrics of protest songs, and wondered about how why some of the melodies sounded chipper, with melodies that would cause a person to tap their toes as they listened; however, a careful ear could pick up on the sadness and frustration in the lyrics, perhaps a nod to the combination of feelings of those years.

When Bryce brought out his helmet and belt, a few students approached to get a closer look — even trying on the items and checking out the tiny pack of paper to be used in the latrine. Bryce explained how boots like the ones he wore were often fitted with steel soles to help protect against the numerous land mines. Though many returned home with missing limbs, it hardly seemed like it was enough protection.

Bryce brought his classmates a taste of the atrocities of war, but he also brought a sense of pride in serving this country. You could see the glow in his eyes as he spoke of the brave men and women who have served our country with honor in times of war and in times of peace.

Great job, Bryce! Thank you for sharing your gifts with us today!