Response to Through Our Eyes

Letter from John Birch

2007-06-14T15:15:00.000-07:00

E-mail forwarded by Shelly Boykin

2007-06-14T15:09:00.001-07:00

Date: Tuesday, May 29, 2007 03:47PM
Subject: A call today

A very sweet 75 year old retired teacher called today and wanted to speak with you and your classes. She did not have internet access so I did transfer her to Ms. Walter's extension. Mrs. Charlle (pronounced Charley) L'Esperance taught 4th, 5th and 6th graders in Eureka, CA and used to send out letters to the Viet Nam vets and their families. She loves what you are doing this week and with your own students. She would like to speak with you directly and I offered to pass on her phone number.

Thanks,

Shelly Boykin, LHS Receptionist

E-mail from Lorie Shafer

2007-06-14T15:08:00.001-07:00

Date: 29.05.2007 15:43
Subject: Re: Memorial Day Tribute

Thanks for all your great work! (and your kids). Randy Magellen (not sure of this spelling) graduated in 1969. He was killed soon after graduation - I remember because it is the first death of someone I knew. I was away at college. I think you can find more info on him from the yearbook. He was athletic looking and I remember thinking - how could he have died?

Thanks again,
Lorie (May) Shafer
Class of '69
(now at Lacomb school)

E-mail from Cathy Watt

2007-06-14T15:02:00.001-07:00

Subject: James Salisbury
Date: Sun, 6 May 2007 17:55:17 -0700

Hi Tiffany – It was very nice to meet you on Friday. We headed out to the cemetery after our meeting with you and located both Jim’s and Lonnie Moore’s headstones. As you enter the cemetery, you see the first section on the right – the rows are marked with cement stones at the end of each row, beginning at 1 as you first enter. Lonnie’s headstone is in row 19, about 1/3 of the way in. Jim’s headstone is in row 31, eighth from the main road. His mother (I think) is in row 30, first one near the main road. They have the same flowers at both. Jim and Lonnie’s are roughly across from the office.

Hope that helps. Best of luck with your project.

Cathy Watt , Partner

JWA, LLC

E-mail from Diane Michael

2007-06-14T14:58:00.001-07:00

Date: Thursday, May 24, 2007 04:48PM
Subject: Re: Memorial Day Tribute

24 May 2007

Thank you for making us aware of Lebanon's contributions to America, both in the Viet Nam era and now.

diane

E-mail from Peg Urban

2007-06-14T14:57:00.000-07:00

Date: Thursday, May 24, 2007 04:55PM
Subject: Re: Memorial Day Tribute

Ginny and Jennifer,

Thank you so much for making us aware of your students' work. It is truly wonderful that they have taken on this project.....and their flyer is really cool, too!! Thanks for continuing to support and encourage them!

Peg Urban
School Psychologist
Lebanon Community School District

E-mail from Lisa Bergstrom

2007-06-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

Date: Friday, May 25, 2007 07:33AM
Subject: Re: Memorial Day Tribute

I wish my Dad were alive to be there. You see, he served in Vietnam 1967-1968. He died 3 years ago as a result of Gastrointestinal Stromal Cell cancer that, just a few weeks before he passed away after 4 years of suffering, the Veteran's Administration admitted was brought on by his exposure to Agent Orange when he was stationed in Vietnam. He would be so grateful that people remembered. Dad grew up in Lebanon and Mr. Hassenyager was a friend of his.

Thanks again.

Lisa Bergstrom
IA/Title 1
Volunteer Coordinator
Green Acres

"It is better to build a child than to repair an adult"

E-mail from Terri Krebs

2007-06-14T14:55:00.001-07:00

Date: 05/25/2007 08:29AM
Subject: Nam program

Thanks for taking the time to provide the local Vietnam program. Society seems to use a big eraser and forget. The 'local' twist is very kind. I know these things take a lot of extra time. Thanks for taking that time.
I would love to attend. However, I scheduled another event several weeks ago. I'm sure I'll hear many good reviews.
Terri

Nobody cares if you can't do it..........they care if you don't try!

Terri Krebs
Pioneer School
1st grade

E-mail from Ron Benshoof

2007-06-14T14:53:00.000-07:00

Amanda,

I just wanted to tell you how much I really liked your presentation on my cousin Lonnie Moore.

The whole presentation was very much appreciated, I could tell that it had an impact on all of you.

Great job!!

enjoy your summer,

Ron Benshoof
class of '72

Albany Democrat-Herald Editor’s mailbag

2007-06-14T14:52:00.001-07:00

A fitting memorial project

I would like to thank you for the article about the senior class project researching the stories of the men from Lebanon who gave their lives in Vietnam. The story prompted me to attend the presentation last night, (the traditional Memorial Day), at the Lebanon High School auditorium. I was impressed with the work these young people did and what they learned from their research. It brought back a lot of memories and sadness; most of those men were born about the same time as me. These students had a difficult assignment and should be very proud of what they did to recognize the sacrifice of these men and other veterans. Thank you to these future leaders and congratulations as you graduate.

Patricia Eich, Albany

E-mail from John A. (Jack) Gatchell

2007-06-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

Ms Moody,

Please pass on for me the thanks to the Lebanon High School students for the project they have completed in honor of the Viet Nam Vets. I graduated from Lebanon Union High School in 1957 and am a Viet Nam era veteran via the draft. I can relate to the other "Nam" vets as I was also called a "Baby Killer" and spat on. I never talked much about my service time even though I was in a very highly sensitive function in my few years in the military.

I now live in Anthem, Arizona, at times I do miss Oregon especially when someone does what the students have done.

Thank you,
John A. (Jack) Gatchell

E-mail 2 from John Watt

2007-06-14T14:38:00.000-07:00

Tiffany/Taryn,

Let me take this opportunity to congratulate you both on your hard work! I am looking forward to this evening’s presentation. Cathy will be driving up from Medford and my friend Bob Repine and a friend of his will be there. And, of course, Jami will be attending, as well. I saw the story in the Albany paper so I hope the turnout will be good for your event.

I am looking forward to seeing Tim and his wife tonight. Will you and/or Taryn be available to greet us this evening or are we pretty much on our own? Let me know.

Finally, thank you on behalf of my family and my generation for your tribute to the brave men who served our country with great honor. They gave their lives so that you can have the freedom to live your lives as you choose. Your efforts will not be forgotten.

Best Regards,

John Watt

E-mail from Randy Osborne

2007-06-14T14:35:00.000-07:00

Steven,

I think of Larry often. We were fairly close in Viet Nam although he wasn't with us too long. I had just returned form R&R and I was to be on point that day but Larry stepped up and volunteered. In many ways I feel he saved my life. I was very experienced at point and he was a "new guy". ( I think that was his first time on point.) We walked head on into an ambush. Larry was hit and killed instantly . I was 3 or 4 men away. We were in Kham Duc at the time. Thick jungle near the Cambodian border. I've often wondered about his family and had hoped to be in contact with them some day. I keep a rubbing of Larry's name, off the Viet Nam Wall, on a picture behind my desk. Feel free to give my E-Mail address to any family member. I hope this reaches you in time. I didn't open my mail until 6:00 pm sunday. Sorry I can't get a picture to you. not enough time.

Randy

E-mail from John Watt

2007-06-14T14:32:00.000-07:00

Tiffany,

Your message really took me by surprise! I have a lump in my throat. Anyway……to answer your question. Yes, I do have information about Jim. He was a dear friend. He and I were so close that I named my daughter after him. In fact, Jami lives in Lebanon now. I would be proud to tell you all I can about Jim.

I must tell you that I am pleased to hear about your project. Jim and Lonnie Moore (also a good friend) would be happy to know that you are finally honoring their service to America.

I am working in my Salem office during the legislative session and would be thrilled to meet you and Taryn. I would also like to correspond with Jim’s brother Tim. Perhaps you could let Tim know my email address and ask him to contact me. My phone numbers are listed below, as well.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Best Regards,

John Watt

“Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you” Pericles (430 B.C.)

Email from Roger Belveal

2007-06-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

Jennifer and Ginny,

Below is a wonderful e-mail RE: the history information on our website as well as information on a local soldier who was killed in Vietnam. (His mother was a school teacher; Roger Belveal was one of her students.)I think your students' project, "Through Our Eyes: The Stories of Lebanon's Fallen Vietnam Soldiers," was absolutely wonderful and touching and has clearly sparked interest and appreciation for fallen soldiers p'raps otherwise forgotten.

Thank you for being the wonderful teachers that you are!
Marta Neilson
Documents TechnicianLebanon Community Schools
Phone: 541-259-8920
e-mail: marta_neilson@lebanon.k12.or.usWebsite: www.lebanon.k12.or.us-----
Forwarded by Marta Neilson/LEBSD on 06/12/2007 08:29 AM -----

06/11/2007 05:54 PM
To

cc
Subject
Data posted to form 1 of http://www.lebanon.k12.or.us/email.htm
*******************************************************************************Name: Roger BelvealEmail: re@belveal.comSubmit: SubmitMessage:Hello, On the LUHS Alumni Yahoo group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LebanonUnionHigh/message/43043 Celeste Wheeler gave us the link to the history section of the school web site about Sandridge http://www.lebanon.k12.or.us/history/history_sdr.htm mentioning Larry Jay Wheeler.
It happens that Larry Jay Wheeler’s mother Alice was my first school teacher and one of the kindest dearest ladies I’ve ever known. She taught for many years at McDowell Creek school which is also mentioned in your history section. Your site shows it open until 1950 with a question mark. I attended first grade there in the fall of 1966. Mrs. Alice Wheeler taught first and second grades together in the one school room. I remember well her telling us about her son, Jay, who had joined the army. She was extremely proud of him. She told us the story of sending him cookies which the sergeant made him open and share with the rest of the platoon so they wouldn’t be in his barracks attracting pests. One day he visited our class wearing his olive green uniform. He was very shy even before a class of first and second graders. She proudly introduced him. It was just a few months later that I remember the newspaper article about his death just before he was to come home for his wedding. --

Re: [LUHS] Larry Jay Wheeler, 6/12/1946-8/12/1969
Larry Wheeler, 23, Tangent, was killed in Vietnam as the result of hostile action, the U.S. Army said Saturday. Wheeler was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dean Wheeler, Rt. 1 Box 197, Tangent. Wheeler attended Western Mennonite High School near Salem. He also attended George Fox College, Newberg, for three years and Oregon State University in Corvallis for one year. He was due to return to the United States in early September and was engaged to Kathleen Garner of Albany.Invitations to the 14 Sep (1969) wedding had already been made up when word was receivedof Wheeler's death. (Sunday Oregonian, Portland OR, 17 Aug 1969)>on panel 19W of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.>>http://www.lebanon.k12.or.us/history/history_sdr.htm--

A couple of years ago I took a consulting job in DC. His name was the first one that I looked for on wall of the Vietnam Memorial. I arrived late in the evening. It was still winter and I had no flashlight. By following the reflection of the moon against the smooth black granite I found the name of Larry Jay Wheeler. And I remembered.
Thanks for including the history of the schools on this website.

Roger Belveal LUHS 78

Email from Jan Bickett

2007-06-14T14:01:00.000-07:00

Date: Thursday, June 07, 2007 09:20AM
Subject: RE: teachers Ginny Hoke and Jennifer Walter

I read with great interest the article "Through Their Eyes" in the Lebanon Express. What a wonderful idea of teachers Hoke and Walter. I am sure it will have a lasting impact on the students as well as us the readers. I too have lost a child (Tami Bickett LUHS class of 1987) and all of us want those children to be remembered. Congrats to each of you and may you continue to inspire our next generation.

God bless each of you.
Jan Bickett
tookers@comcast.net

Email from Steve Kelley

2007-06-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

Date: Friday, June 01, 2007 11:35AM
Subject: Congratulations!!

Ladies,

Words truly escape me. (not always the case) Your students' program concerning the Vietnam war and its links to Lebanon was extremely inspirational. When I think about Rigor, Relevance and Relationships, I will always think of this project. All of our students' educational experiences should be as rich and rewarding as your project was for your students. Thanks again for sharing your gift with our students from Lebanon. : - )
Have a Great Day!! : ^ )

Steve Kelley,
Assistant Superintendent
Lebanon Community School District
485 S. Fifth St.
Lebanon, OR 97355
(541) 451-8511 ext. 223(541) 451-8519
(fax)steve_kelley@lebanon.k12.or.us

Email from Debbie Edwards

2007-06-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

Date: Thursday, May 31, 2007 10:09AM
Subject: Vietnam project
Congratulations to Ginny Hoke and Jen Walter and their students on a job extremely well done! What a fabulous project and so much evident pride on the part of the kids. Wow! I really enjoyed the whole process. Great work by all!

Debbie Edwards

Email from Jan Zarate

2007-06-14T13:51:00.001-07:00

Date: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 05:38PM
Subject: Re: Memorial Day Tribute

Ginny and Jennifer,

I was able to watch the dress rehearsal. I can't tell you how touched I am by what I saw today. The connections with the families and the stories that have ensued has led to life-changing events for these students. This was obviously more than just an assignment.Thank you for the invitation.
Jan

Jan E. Zárate
Director of Student Achievement
Lebanon Community Schools
485 S. 5th StreetLebanon, Oregon 97355-2602
(541) 451-8511 ext. 270jan_zarate@lebanon.k12.or.us

Email from Peggy Blair

2007-06-14T13:48:00.001-07:00

Date: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 09:00PM
Subject: Thank you

Dear Ginny and Jennifer,

Words cannot describe the appreciation I have for the work that you have done with your class on this project. What a wonderful gift you've given the community, but more importantly what a gift of learning you've given to your students. Not only have they learned research, speaking, listening, writing, editing, video editing, etc, etc, etc, but they have learned to care about and appreciate history---as a human story. I am certain they will look at the past with an entirely new perspective. I absolutely believe them when they say this was a 'life-changing' experience!Thank you for your dedication, your willingness to take a risk, and your unfailing faith in your students. (Now go spread it around! :-)

Peggy Blair,
PrincipalLHS: Social Systems Academy
1700 S. 5th Lebanon, OR 97355
541-451-8555 ext. 1024

Email from Ron Benshoof

2007-06-14T13:45:00.000-07:00

Date: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 10:24PM
Subject: Vietnam project

hi Jenny,

I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciated the student's presentation. It meant alot to me, it did bring back some hidden memories.It was nice to see you again.
take care,
Ron

Email from Kate Worster

2007-06-14T13:29:00.001-07:00

Date: Thursday, May 31, 2007 12:55PM
Subject: Re: Vietnam Project

GREAT JOB. I was impressed yesterday. Looks like they picked up some great skills both technological and personal. Cool!

E-mail from Joe Klinger

2007-06-14T08:05:00.000-07:00

Subject: Re: James Salisbury

Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:49:53 -0400

Tiffany:

Thanks so much for remembering Jim Salisbury. I am so impressed with your high school project, and you were very fortunate to be assigned Jim Salisbury as he was an outstanding Marine. Even though it has been many years, I can clearly remember Jim. He was very nice and considerate of his fellow marines, and was extraordinarily brave in combat. I was his Squad Leader when he first arrived at our unit and he learned very quickly. He was later assigned to another squad, which was lead by a marine from California named Richard Skaggs. We were all very good friends and Jim became the assistant Squad Leader for Corporal Skaggs. Even though we were involved in combat much of the time, there would often be periods of time that we could relax and tell stories, laugh, play pranks on each other, etc. As such, we have many happy memories along with sad. After 11 months in combat, I was shot and recuperating from wounds in a military hospital in Japan, when I learned about what happened to Jim. I had only been away for about 2 weeks when Jim was killed. I understand he was shot by a sniper, then Corporal Skaggs ran to his assistance, and was also mortally wounded. Jim was always one to risk his life and run to the aid of his fellow marines. We all lost two great Americans that day, and I lost two good friends that I will always remember. Thanks for taking time and effort to honor such a great American Marine, who sacrificed his life for our freedoms. Young people like yourself, make us all proud to have fought for this country. I know Jim would be honored by your efforts, and, as such, he is smiling in heaven.

I would really appreciate a copy of your dvd. Pls send to me at 7312 Wentworth Drive, Springfield, IL 62711. I would be pleased to reimburse you for any expense.

Very respectfully, Joe Klinger, Sgt, USMC 1967-1969 and currently Captain, U.S. Navy (RC)