John J. Pershing: Honoring the Fallen

In this lesson, students will learn about the life and actions of John Pershing. They will learn through his actions how he sought to ensure the respect of his soldiers and the sacrifices they made on behalf of their country. Through this example, students will learn how they can be more respectful in their own lives.

Walk-In-The-Shoes Questions
As you read, imagine you are the protagonist.

• What challenges are you facing?
• What fears or concerns might you have?
• What may prevent you from acting in the way you ought?

Observation Questions

• Who was John Pershing?
• What was John Pershing’s role during World War I and its aftermath?
• How did John Pershing’s identity affect his purpose?

Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your students.

• What is the historical context of the narrative?
• What historical circumstances presented a challenge to the protagonist?
• How and why did the individual exhibit a moral and/or civic virtue in facing and overcoming the challenge?
• How did the exercise of the virtue benefit civil society?
• How might exercise of the virtue benefit the protagonist?
• What might the exercise of the virtue cost the protagonist?
• Would you react the same under similar circumstances? Why or why not?
• How can you act similarly in your own life? What obstacles must you overcome in order to do so?

• Students will analyze the actions of John Pershing and the American Battle Monuments Commission.
• Students will understand why respect is essential in order to follow one’s purpose.
• Students will apply their knowledge of respect to their own lives.