On April 11, 2025, Penn Middle School students experienced an immersive lesson in history through a live cannon demonstration. The event, held on school grounds, aimed to deepen students’ understanding of early warfare and the revolutionary era by providing a firsthand look at the technology and tactics of the time.
The demonstration featured an authentic cannon firing, accompanied by a detailed presentation from members of the 4th US Light Artillery battery F. Presenters explained the complex process of loading, aiming, and firing a cannon — a task that required precision, strength, and teamwork. Students were introduced to the various tools involved and learned how these weapons were operated in the field.
This hands-on experience offered a memorable history lesson, which coordinated with Mr. Weir and Mr. Waszo's 8th-grade lessons on the Civil War.
Faith Palmer, Nick Phan, Cole Ward, JR Campbell, and Brayden Bridge listen attentively to presenter, 1st Sergeant Holt
Nick Phan, Jaden Khalil, Khalil Taylor, Ryan Pratkanis, Owen Briggs, and Zach Toughlian with 1st Sergeant Holt
Mr. Waszo’s 2nd-period class gathers for a cannon demonstration with presenter, Captain Donohue