Organized by Spearfish Middle School librarian Sheila Hansen, the trip was an opportunity for the students to experience the Vietnam Memorial Ceremony and dedication first hand.
They left Spearfish around 10:30 a.m. on Friday and returned late that evening. Students were able to attend a special family remembrance ceremony prior to Saturday's early afternoon unveiling of the statue.
"It was very moving," Hansen said of the ceremony. "When it was possible to seat each student with their casualty family it was a very powerful experience on both sides."
Following the ceremony, students took about an hour to walk around and reflect on the whole experience. Hansen said many of the students walked to the crosses to find their casualty's name and place roses around them. Following that, several students created a pencil drawing when visiting the moving wall.
"I've never been prouder of our students of their work and their selflessness. It was a great day to be a Spartan," Hansen said of how the kids behaved and took it all in.
During the three-hour ride home, students were able to process some of the things that had happened that day with the parent chaperones. Hansen said it was difficult for her to answer questions because she was only on one bus and appreciated the other available adults. She is also planning to follow up with the students and parents later this week.
Overall Hansen said the trip was absolutely worth it. "Anytime you can pair these students with those families who have such gracious feelings towards these kids, there is absolutely no way to parallel those events. As always, it is an extremely emotional thing for me ... it was both humbling and awe inspiring."