Assumption Students Head to Washington
Assumption Students Head to Washington
The Assumption College School Canadian and World Studies Department sent thirty-five students to Washington D.C. April 24-27. The experience was very rewarding for all who attended. The trip provided an opportunity for the students to see some of the most storied landmarks of American history.
The first stop was in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, site of the famous three day Civil War battle in July, 1863, which proved to be a turning point in the war. The military history buffs among the group were particularly impressed with this part of the trip.
Our first day in Washington was jam-packed from morning till night. The visit to Arlington National Cemetery was a highlight of the excursion. Students were able to witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Many were drawn to the eternal flame at the John F. Kennedy gravesite.
Also popular among the students was the tour of Washington’s many memorials, including the Lincoln, Jefferson and F.D.R. memorials. Several students cited the visit to the Korean, Vietnam and World War Two war memorials as their favourite part of the trip. History teacher Jennifer Tunnicliffe commended the students for their mature and reverent conduct at these hallowed sites.
Day Two began with a visit to the White House, followed by the most moving part of the trip, an excursion to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. History teacher Ryan O’Donoghue was very impressed by the museum. “The display on the Nazi Olympics of 1936 gave everyone a comparison for the Beijing Olympics and whether a boycott is proper or not. As well the Holocaust display was powerful beyond words”, noted Mr. O’Donoghue. Many of the students were shaken up by many of the displays at the museum, including one section where visitors can walk through an actual train cart used to transport Jews to concentration camps.
In the afternoon, students visited the Smithsonian Institution; the world’s largest museum complex. Many were drawn to the National Air and Space Museum, the world’s most visited museum. In the evening we attended a murder mystery at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts.
Overall, it was a very informative experience for all who attended. Josh Bradford, a Grade 12 student, commented at the conclusion that “…there is so much to see in Washington, such as the different Smithsonian museums, the International Spy Museum and other landmarks that we were unable to visit. I will have to return one day to fully appreciate all that there is to offer”.
