Jim Wendt speaking in a Goff Social Studies classU.S. Air Force veteran Jim Wendt, who served in the Vietnam War, spoke to 8th grade social studies students at Howard L. Goff Middle School on Wednesday. He talked about his experience in Vietnam where he spent 14 months repairing radar and weapons systems on aircraft. He also showed photos of his base, his work and the landscape of the country.

Mr. Wendt, who is the father of Social Studies teacher Carol Lichorowiec, has been visiting as a guest speaker in her classes over the years, providing a firsthand experience of the Vietnam War.

“My dad shared his personal story and photos of his experience serving in Vietnam in the mid 1960s,” said Mrs. Lichorowiec. “The students are able to see how technology and war have changed over time and how each soldier can have a different experience while serving overseas in a combat situation. I hope that having my dad share his story prompts my students to talk to their own grandparents or other family members about their life experiences and how they may be similar or different to my dad’s.”