This morning, our Upper School was honored to hear from two StC alumni who witnessed history in the making. Classmates Cabell Doyle ‘99 and Tripp Copeland ’99 both experienced different aspects of the U.S. military drawdown in Afghanistan firsthand and spoke to our Upper School boys in Memorial Chapel. 

Copeland, who spent two years working in Kabul for the State Department, discussed his work with local peace-building initiatives in Afghanistan, meeting face-to-face with Taliban representatives and what it was like to negotiate with them. “Whether it is a wartime enemy or a next-door neighbor, everyone has a unique perspective, lived experience and shared humanity,” said Copeland. “I know it’s not always easy to start or to stick with a constructive dialogue, but it’s always worth a try.”

Doyle, who is an American Airlines pilot, has served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve for 16 years and is father to StC seventh grader Hayden. He spoke about his experience evacuating U.S. citizens and allies to safety during Operation Allied Refugee. Inspired by what he experienced, he urged the Upper School students to seek ways to serve and help their communities, no matter their religion, race or background. “Have a discussion with people who don’t look like you or don’t have the same opinions as you,” said Doyle. “Be a contributor to society, be kind and go Saints.”