By Tumba B. Cool II, NJVVMF Intern
This is a series of spotlights on our NJVVMF interns. These students have dedicated their time to learn about our mission, work, and Veterans in order to gain first-hand experience within the Foundation.
We are always looking to support interested students in any way we can at the NJVVMF. If you know of a high school senior or college student who is interested in interning with them people reach out to our Museum Educator, Keri A. Giannotti at kgiannotti@njvvmf.org
————————-
Many recognize history as the discoveries man has made since the beginning of time. Considering the modern form of human beings evolved about 200,000 years ago, it is disappointing what the human race has developed. Wars have been fought because of social disagreements, lives have been lost because of inadequate leaders, and opinions have been suppressed because of social norms; Is peace realistic for homo sapiens?
In order to find that answer, I must travel in the darkest periods of history to understand why these events occurred, which ultimately gave birth to my interest in interning at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation.
My favorite aspect of the internship is the complex problem-solving the projects present. Whether it be adjusting schedules or developing new creative strategies, this skill is ultimately necessary for my future career path because it allows me to consistently assure that I have a “plan B.” Initially, my perception of the Vietnam War and Era was that all soldiers were committing a massive act of patriotism.
Although that may be true, a leading factor of strength during the war was that the military consisted of afraid adolescents that wanted to follow orders; however, they were motivated by fear. What I have learned that altered my perspective was that politicians primarily started the war legislatively. In which, if it was not for political disagreements, the United States could have avoided the Vietnam War.