On Thursday, May 6, 2004, three National Guard soldiers, who served in Iraq, visited Franklin School to speak to third graders about the war in Iraq.
Students and teachers gathered in the library and listened as Guardsmen Fred Coughlan, Robert Peer and John Bird responded to a variety of questions posed by the students, which indicated their desire to better understand the conflict.
When asked, “How much water did you drink while you were on duty in Iraq?” Soldier Coughlan told the students that he drank about one liter of water every hour because the desert climate produces extreme thirst.
Third grader, Alan Satkowski, was visibly proud to have his Uncle Fred (Coughlan) visit the school to talk to his classmates. After the question and answer period was completed, Alan’s teacher, Mrs. Marla Sarrel asked Alan to distribute American flag cookies to the special guests and all of the children who attended the assembly.
According to Mrs. Mary Ann Boyd, Principal of Franklin School, “One thing is for certain: the students, teachers and I were honored that these National Guard soldiers took the time to visit Franklin School and share about their experiences in Iraq. We are all grateful and thankful that men and women are willing to leave their families and friends and serve in the military to help preserve our freedom, secure our safety, and fight for our way of life.”