Last Saturday, the gifted young students of Mandeville Select embarked on a battlefield tour led by Major Vik Franke and Lieutenant Colonel Loet van Beek. The location: the drop and landing zone of ‘Easy Company’ near Son, as part of Operation Market Garden.
The day began with an introduction at the edge of the drop and landing zone. This was followed by a visit to the Paulushoeve and a conversation with eyewitness Mr. Wan van Overveld. The Paulushoeve is located on the Sonse Heide, right in the middle of the drop and landing zone. At the Paulushoeve, the students enjoyed a lunch consisting of MREs.
Afterward, they visited a site illustrating the advance toward one of the bridges Easy Company had to capture. Here, they reflected at the memorial site of LTC Robert Cole (Medal of Honor recipient). Discussions covered aspects of leadership and integrity.
The students then conducted a speed march to a location where they were tasked with completing a tactical/strategic assignment. The speed march was part of the segment “leadership under physical conditions with the enemy.” Following this, the students set up a casualty nest, studied the consequences of combat, explored the medical chain, and learned about the treatment of the wounded and fallen. Key takeaway: freedom does not come for free.
Additionally, the students laid a floral tribute at the memorial for PFC Joe Mann (Medal of Honor recipient), observing two minutes of silence while the Last Post was played. Key takeaway: ceremonial tribute to the fallen.
In short: what an incredible day!
