Students Celebrate General Pershing in 2019
School celebrated General John J. Pershing’s birthday with cake and ice cream to augment a week’s worth of study on the military hero. They learned of his start as a teacher of African-American students; his career at West Point, his heroic rise in World War I and his thoughtful command of African-American troops. Click headline to read more.
The cross-curricular program was coordinated by Principal Herbert Buie and teacher instructional leaders Deitra Colquitt and Jessica Hawkins. It was inspired by local historian and program sponsor, University City resident Mark Winer who explained, “I wanted Pershing students to learn about Pershing’s life and legacy and how important he was to the rise of African-American soldiers in WWI.” He added, “It’s also a great excuse to have cake and ice cream!” Winer’s “birthday party” featured a series of cakes bearing the likenesses of General Pershing and his troops!
Pershing, a Missouri native, attended Truman State University in Kirksville. He taught basic studies to African-American students until, upon invitation from West Point, he decided to pursue a military career. Pershing was known for his strategic fighting skills and for clearing the way for highly-trained African-American troops, like the Buffalo Soldiers and the Harlem Hell Fighters of New York, who were among the most decorated soldiers of WWI.
Students explored the details of General Pershing’s 1919 visit and the engraved trowel he used that is still part of the school’s history collection today. Although Pershing School was completely rebuilt and rededicated in August 2012, the 1919 cornerstone remains on site.
“Although our school has changed over these past 100 years, the name Pershing, carries a special meaning,” Buie said, “And we are excited to explore the General’s legacy with our students.”
Pershing proved to be a true hero, reaching the highest rank of General of the Armies. He is the only living General to have received the honor of picking his insignia – four stars.
Click here for event press release.
Event photos:
University City High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps’ Color Guard. Color Guard Commander Angela Smith (left photo: front) and Cadet Group Commander Dominic Bryant (center photo) greeted students before opening the school-wide assembly with the Presentation of Colors (right photo).
Fourth-grader Evan Smith (left) served as moderator for the event. Dressed in period costume, historian Tom Hoff (right) presented highlight Pershing’s stellar career.
Everyone celebrated with cakes decorated with historical photos and ice cream, of course!
The heroes of this special day include sponsor and historian Mark Winer; Sue Rehkopf, archivist for the Historical Society of University City Tom Hoff, Museum Educator for the History Department, St. Louis County; Jim Adams owner of Catalyst Strength and Functional Nutrition, and Chef Robert Rusan of Ruff’s catering in partnership with Letishia Robinson Baker.
Event Program:
School celebrated General John J. Pershing’s birthday on Sept. 13, 2018, with cake, ice cream and a week’s worth of study on the military hero. They learned of his start as a teacher of African-American students, career at West Point, heroic rise in WWI, thoughtful command of African-American troops and more. Click headline for photos and to read more.
