SkillsUSA Students from Lawrence County CTC Join Veterans for Meaningful Trip to Washington, D.C.

On September 27, members of the Lawrence County Career and Technical Center chapter of SkillsUSA in Pennsylvania embarked on a 24-hour journey to Washington, D.C. with the Agent Orange Veterans Project (AOV). Their mission: assist veterans with mobility issues in visiting the nation’s most sacred monuments and memorials.

Led by Hugh Coryea, President of AOV, the trip allowed veterans to experience memorials honoring military service and sacrifice, including the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where the group was given the rare honor of laying a wreath.

“Helping and talking to the men and women from all different branches was amazing,” said Matthew Fennel. “One veteran, ‘Frito,’ told us how much it meant to him. That will stay with me forever.”

The day began at 3:00 a.m., when two full-size buses carried veterans, students, advisors, and family members to D.C. The first stop was the Iwo Jima Memorial, followed by a self-guided tour through Arlington Cemetery, including the Military Women's Memorial, Arlington House, and John F. Kennedy’s Eternal Flame, followed by a delicious lunch of Arby’s ham and cheese sandwiches with all the fixings. It may have taken a little bit to get the feel for precisely how the students could lend a hand, but once they did, they were determined to make sure that every Veteran they encountered had a positive experience.

One of the most moving moments came after lunch when the group reached the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Despite the steep climb, SkillsUSA students took turns pushing wheelchairs so every veteran could witness the Changing of the Guard.

“21 steps. 21 seconds. The precision and dedication it takes inspired me,” said Riley Werner. “It made me want to strive for perfection in everything I do—even in Cosmetology.”

“The guards don’t even know who they’re honoring, but they devote their lives to it,” added Mya Kilgore. “When Taps played, I wanted to cry. I’ve never felt that level of respect before—it changed how I view the military forever.”

“Seeing all the veterans cry and smile—especially during the Changing of the Guard—made me proud,” said Juanita Glidden.

“For me, the wreath laying ceremony was deeply emotional,” said Madison Peoples, who recently committed to the U.S. Army. “The veteran next to me stood—despite needing help. The legacy of service and respect truly hit home for me.”

“Watching the guards’ discipline and hearing Taps brought tears to my eyes,” said Jason Merlini.

Later in the afternoon, students and veterans visited the World War II Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, FDR Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, before stopping at the Vietnam and Korean War Memorials. Despite the rain, students ensured that veterans who wanted to explore could do so.

“Helping the veterans was the best part,” said Austin Gerrish. “The WWII Memorial stood out to me. You could tell how much care went into making it meaningful.”

“The dedication the soldiers have shows how important it is to guard the honor of those who gave their lives,” said Nathan Hill.

Dinner at Mission BBQ brought the group together one last time before a nighttime tour of memorials. At the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Mr. Coryea pinned several Vietnam veterans in a special moment of recognition.

For many students, the trip left a lasting impact.

“I am so grateful I went,” said Dhaysee Barbosa. “Meeting veterans and hearing their stories was eye-opening — Especially “Grammie” who was the most “senior” veteran on the trip. At 91, she taught me how important it was to recognize all veterans—even the women who served. I hope to go again—it was a truly beautiful experience.”

This journey wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was about honoring, learning, and serving. The SkillsUSA students represented their school and community with pride, compassion, and unwavering dedication, creating memories that will last a lifetime—for both themselves and the veterans they served.