In honor of Veterans Day, Mr. Rob Verdi, a social studies teacher at Bethpage High School, visited JFK Middle School to share a personal and educational experience with the eighth grade students. Mr. Verdi’s presentation highlighted his journey from a teacher profoundly affected by the events of Sept. 11, 2001, to an active member of the Army Reserve.
As a teacher at Bethpage High School during the attacks on Sept. 11, Mr. Verdi recalled the deep impact the day had on his life and the lives of many around him. Compelled to serve in response to the tragic events, Mr. Verdi joined the Army Reserve, a decision that would lead him into active duty overseas. During his visit, he explained to the students the complex political dynamics in the Middle East that contributed to the rise of terrorism and ultimately led to the events of 9-11, providing important historical context for the significance of his service.
Mr. Verdi recounted his journey through basic training and his deployment to Kuwait and Iraq, eventually serving as a prison guard. To bring his experiences to life, he shared a collection of digital photos taken during his time in the military, showing students where he lived and worked and providing a glimpse into the daily realities of a soldier. Students were captivated by his stories of life on base, the surrounding environment and the responsibilities that came with his role. Through these visuals, he offered a rare, personal look into what life was like as a soldier stationed in Kuwait and Iraq.
Following the presentation, Mr. Verdi answered the students’ questions, sharing insights and reflections on his time in the military. His openness and willingness to discuss his experiences offered an inspiring perspective on service and dedication to one’s country, and it may even inspire some students to consider serving in the armed forces in the future.
