"Vietnam

is an era I think our country is just beginning to understand and a lot

of the wounds and division that we had as a nation are now beginning to

fully heal. This project lets these kids see that this war ended a blind

trust we held in our government for years," said Gloer.

In addition

to keeping a portfolio, students must read the book by Moore and Galloway

as well as construct a mini replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall. One

of the most emotional parts of the project requires students to write

letters to fictitious fallen Vietnam soldiers and place them on the wall

along with a gift that symbolizes how they feel about the veteran's actions.

"This

project has changed my life. I have learned how tragic the 60s were with

all of the upheaval and change and it has made me want to go back in time

to serve my country in the war," said Jason Earwood.

Students in

Gloer's class say they feel a strong connection to the era because many

of their custodians at the school served in the South Vietnam military

and had to escape after the war to avoid being executed.

"We have

learned a lot about what they had to go through just to save their lives.

This project has really increased the level of patriotism that I feel

toward my country," said Lauren Dillon.

In addition

to learning about the Vietnam War and why it happened, Gloer says there

are two main messages he hopes students take away from the project.

"They

need to know that division in our country serves no purpose other than

dividing us on all fronts. Vietnam veterans need the support of our people

today, we turned our backs on them 30 years ago," he said.