The Upper School’s Literature of War class studies stories of war, both written and oral, to reflect on the human cost of conflict and to inspire students to consider their responsibilities as citizens.

Students have just returned from their tenth annual trip to Washington, D.C., which brought 30 seniors together for an intense three days of bonding and experiential learning. Direct service work is a cornerstone of the experience; as they did last year, students visited Access Housing, a transitional housing non-profit affiliated with the Veterans Administration that provides critical services to unhoused veterans.

Prior to the trip, students organized a bake sale to fund gift bags for Access Housing’s clients. During the visit, students distributed the bags, decorated social spaces, and spoke with veterans. Cliff Lewis, Chief Operating Officer of Access Housing, shared: “Huge thanks to the amazing students and staff of Moses Brown School for visiting our campus on December 14, 2025, and decorating our facility for the second year in a row! Our Veterans were honored to share their stories and life experiences, sparking powerful conversations. Moments like these show the true power of connection, service, and mentorship.”

Another major component of the trip is visiting the D.C. war memorials. This year, students were again led by Ranger Jen who provided historical insights and "hidden" details. Jen also engages with MB’s third graders about her role as a National Parks Ranger. Despite the record-cold weather, students remained deeply engaged, particularly when they located the name of Valentino J. LaScola on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. Val was intended to enter the Vietnam War on the "buddy system" with friend-of-the-class Wally Coelho. Though the timing didn't work out and Wally only learned of Val’s death upon his return home, Wally remains a meaningful part of every Literature of War class. By finding and photographing Val’s name (Wally had told the where it is), students brought the meaning of the memorial close to home.

Taught by Abby Phyfe for twelve years, the course aims to move beyond historical accounts to focus on the personal stories of those impacted by war. “The course challenges younger generations to consider what they can do to make those people who return home feel genuinely appreciated, heard, and cared for,” Abby shares.

The curriculum draws specific attention to the victims of war within the context of the school’s Quaker values. This commitment to service extends beyond the D.C. trip; the class also coordinates an annual food drive and fundraiser for Operation Stand Down, a Rhode Island-based organization supporting local unhoused and at-risk veterans. Literature of War is more than an English class; it is a powerful commitment to memory, empathy, and advocacy, preparing students to be informed and active global citizens.