TULSA, Okla. – The commander of the Tulsa District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, addressed middle school students during a Veterans Day assembly at R. J. Wells Middle School, Nov. 10.
Speaking to students, faculty and local veterans, Col. Richard A. Pratt talked about the bond that exists among those who commit to military service, the opportunities military service provides, and the job opportunities for people who study Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).
“I had a chance to meet with some of the veterans here before the event and I want to thank you for your service,” Pratt said. “When you serve in the military there is a sense of brotherhood that develops.”
Pratt noted that service in the military, though more common in the Midwest than in some parts of the country, is relatively rare in modern times.
“Less than a half percent of Americans serve in the military, today” said Pratt. “To put it in perspective that means if we have 400 people in an auditorium like this one, only about two are in the military.”
Pratt also discussed the history of the Tulsa District and encouraged the students to consider STEM-related studies and military service, which he described as a short-term decision with a long-term benefit.
“A lot of my friends were going into the military and I said, ‘I’m going to do three years and see what it is like,’” Pratt said. “It’s been 27 years since I did that, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”