Submitted article
November 11, Veteran’s Day, is a time to honor those who have served our country in the armed forces. It also provides an opportunity for schools to invite servicemen and women into the classrooms to help teach students valuable life lessons.
Students at the Galion Middle School had a unique opportunity to hear from a distinguished local veteran. United States Marine Corps Sergeant Brian Nutter spoke to students in the classroom Nov. 10. Galion Middle School teacher Jill Fenner arranged his visit with the students.
“I have known Brian for several years,” Fenner said. “When I first met Brian, he had been honorably discharged from the Marine Corps after eight years of distinguished service.”
Nutter, who commanded forces aboard a Marine helicopter, completed missions all over the world. One mission he shared with the students was his mission of counter insurgency, counter piracy and humanitarian relief in the Horn of Africa.
“I was excited to speak to Galion students when Mrs. Fenner asked,” Nutter said. “This was an opportunity to help students make a connection between what they are learning in the classroom and the kinds of careers where they can apply that knowledge.”
Nutter’s visit gave the students a chance to see and talk to a veteran up close and personal. This was also an opportunity for students to get a better understanding for the importance of Veteran’s Day, and also for them to see what’s possible for their futures.
“Sometimes students can get down and not really see a good future for themselves,” Fenner said. “I wanted the students to see that they can dream and be anything they desire.”
Nutter admitted that he was not the best student during his high school days. However, he found his niche in the Marine Corps and excelled to tremendous heights.
“I wasn’t one of the smartest kids while in school,” Nutter said. “I didn’t have the best grades, but I found something that I liked and was able to experience a great deal of success.”
Throughout his presentation, Nutter showed students different pieces from his vast array of gear used during his time in the military. He shared everything from flight logbooks to his flight helmet. He even showed the students the sword he was issued when he became a Non-Commissioned Officer in the Marine Corps.
“Brian had every intention of enjoying a long career in the Marine Corps, but budget cuts brought his career to an abrupt halt,” Fenner said. “When Brian returned home, he enrolled in the North Central State College police academy, graduated near the top of his class and now serves the citizens in the Greenwich, OH as a police officer. He has adjusted well to civilian life and is enjoying the daily excitement that comes along with his new career.”
To learn more about Nutter’s visit to Galion Middle School, please contact Jill Fenner at 419-468-3134 or email fenner.jill@galionschools.org.