American Legion recognizes veterans in the classroom

The American Legion has a long-standing commitment to American education and believes a strong education program is important to maintaining American traditions and instilling in our young people a sense of personal obligation and responsibility. Since 1921, The American Legion has supported American Education Week in November to recognize the contributions made by schools and teachers. This year, we wanted to bring awareness that veterans continue to serve long after they take off the uniform by serving in the classroom.

The following six American Legion members serve in the classroom, and they share why.

Air Force veteran Dean Hall of Gardiner, Maine. Member of Post 51. Middle school history and social studies teacher. “My Math teacher in eighth grade was a World War II veteran. He encouraged me to serve and to help others.”

Army veteran Jeremy Blevins of Double Springs, Ala. Member of Post 184. Adjunct computer information systems instructor. “I serve in the classroom because I want to share my knowledge and experiences to help others be successful in cybersecurity.”

Army veteran Tracy Hague of Elkton, S.D. Member of Post 198. Social studies teacher for grades 7-12. “I teach to be part of something bigger. My students are fighting hunger, bullying and lack of support. I serve to help my students fight those enemies.”

Army veteran Nancy Harper of Memphis, Tenn. Member of Post 27. JROTC instructor. “To help mold the minds of our future leaders. To instill in the students confidence and discipline. To watch the students grow and become better citizens.”

Air Force veteran Robert Stewart of Dover, Del. Member of Post 2. Seventh grade math teacher. “While in the military I taught aircraft maintenance, loved teaching, and wanted to come back to teaching. I serve in the classroom for the kids.”

Air Force veteran Melissa Fowle of Troy, Ohio. Member of Post 586. Education sign language interpreter. “I love working with kids! ASL is a conceptual language so I’m always thinking of what people are actually saying. I love helping people understand each other.”