True Colors
As Veteran's Day approaches, one group of Marksmen is doing their part to thoughtfully express gratitude to active duty service members and veterans.
“As much as we can show appreciation for those that serve … small acts like writing letters that take five minutes out of my day, I feel like it’s helpful,” said Ben Erwin ’24, president of St. Mark's Armed Forces Club.
Chartered in 2017, the Armed Forces Club draws Upper School Marksmen for varying reasons: a family history of service, the intriguing stories found in military history, or simply wanting a more tangible way to show gratitude.
“I’ve always been interested in the history of the armed forces,” said Zack Olyan ’24, club vice president. “I’m taking the history of special operations class and wanted to get more involved.”
The club plans to host an assembly with a guest speaker and, more recently, sent food, gifts and letters to overseas service members, including alumni. Some students shared personal experiences in their letters, providing a bit of home to those serving far away.
“I wrote about St. Mark’s and how I am learning to adjust to freshmen year,” said Henry McGill ’27. “I wrote about my goals and aspirations for the future, including how I want to play Division 1 football as a kicker. I finished all my letters with a knock-knock joke.”
With the myriad opportunities to support and recognize veterans, the rewards are gratifying.
“The most rewarding aspect of running this club is being able to help our active service members,” Olyan said. “Whether through letters or bringing awareness, I’m happy I can do what I can.”
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A member of the Armed Forces Club pens a letter to a service member.
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The Armed Forces Club meets after school.
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St. Mark’s School of Texas
10600 Preston Road
Dallas, Texas 75230
214-346-8000
Dallas, Texas 75230
214-346-8000
About Us
St. Mark’s School of Texas is a private, nonsectarian college-preparatory boys’ day school for students in grades 1 through 12, located in Dallas, Texas. St. Mark’s aims to prepare young men to assume leadership and responsibility in a competitive and changing world.
St. Mark’s does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin.
St. Mark’s does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin.
