The U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Regiment and Medal of Honor Recipient Walter J. Marm participated in Seton School’s annual “Honoring our Heroes” assembly in Manassas last month.
Each year, Seton hosts an assembly to honor the nation’s heroes and inspire the student body with the stories and actions of the soldiers who fought and died for the country. The Seton School Parent Resource Organization (PRO) board worked in collaboration with the commanding officers of the regiment, or “The Old Guard,” to organize the event.
Formed in 1784, the Old Guard originally was General George Washington’s private guard. During the Civil War, the regiment defended Washington, D.C., and now serves as the defense of the nation’s capital in the event of a national crisis or emergency. It is also the nation’s highest performing drill team.
After a few short remarks by Seton’s Principal Robert Pennefather, the Continental Color Guard marched in to the beat of a fife and drum and the Colors of the Nation were posted. The soldiers of the Color Guard, who bear the American Colors during the president’s speeches and other major national events, are trained as reenactors and soldiers.
After the Colors were posted, the U.S. Army Silent Drill Team, the nation’s highest performing march and drill team, marched into the gym. The soldiers of the Drill Team perform all over the country for national events and represent the nation to other countries.
“It makes me so happy to have these soldiers at our little school,” said Dana Marm, who helped organize the event with the PRO Board and the regiment.
After the performance, special guest Col. Walter J. Marm, U.S. Army Retired and a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, addressed the student body. The Medal of Honor is America’s highest decoration for valor. Col. Marm detailed his experience during the battle of Ia Drang in the Vietnam War that earned him the medal. He addressed the students about his strong Catholic faith, and how it pulled him out of many struggles. “I wear the medal to represent all my buddies who did not make it out,” he said.
Lastly, Pennefather gave a closing speech, thanking the soldiers of the Old Guard and Col. Marm. With a closing prayer, the soldiers marched once more into the gym. The students then interacted with the soldiers of the Old Guard.
“The experience I had with the Old Guard was exceptional,” said freshman Gabriel Hambleton. “The honor and respect they showed toward our country was professional. Their performance was very impressive to watch. It made me proud to be an American.”
The assembly was a memorable opportunity, and privilege, for the Seton students and community to see firsthand the honor and courage it takes to be among those who defend the country.
