Piper High School – A Cadet Embarked on a Meaningful Service Learning Project

Writer – Colonel Jimmy Hall, DAI, Broward County Public Schools

Photographer –

The cadets of Piper High School in Broward County, under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Dexter Gammage, recently embarked on a meaningful Service Learning Project to honor Gold Star Families and raise funds for their support. Their journey began with in-depth research into the significance of a Gold Star Family, learning that this title is given to those who have lost a son or daughter in combat. After gaining an understanding of the impact of this sacrifice, the cadets conducted a practice briefing with COL Jimmy Hall, Director of Army Instruction. During the briefing, COL Hall asked the cadets if they had reached out to any Gold Star Families in their area. When the cadets responded that they didn’t know any, COL Hall shared that he had a connection with the Mayor of Coconut Creek, who often has Gold Star Families attend Memorial and Veterans Day programs.

Through this connection, I reached out to Beth Becker-Agami, a Gold Star mother who graciously agreed to work with the students. Her son, Army Specialist Daniel Agami, served with the 1/26 Infantry and was tragically killed in action in Adhamiya, Iraq. His final words were: “America fights for freedom and survival for the souls of the entire world.”

Ms. Agami was honored to join the cadets at their Formal JPA, where they presented her with a check for $2,100 raised for Gold Star Families. While she graciously declined to accept the money directly, she decided to donate the funds to an organization that supports veterans, in honor of her son, Specialist Daniel Agami.

This project not only taught the cadets about the significance of Gold Star Families but also gave them the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country. The cadets’ commitment to this cause is a testament to their dedication to service and honoring our nation’s heroes.