Winnacunnet Cooperative High School Students Pay Respects to World War I Soldier During French Exchange Trip

Winnacunnet Cooperative High School students paid their respects to a fallen World War I soldier during their annual cultural exchange program in France.

Seven students visited the Somme American Cemetery in Bony, France, on April 27, laying a wreath to acknowledge the World War 1 service of Private Alojzy Kubicki of Manchester. He served in the First Division of the 16th Infantry, 1st Division, which played an integral role in the war. Private Kubicki died in service to his country on May 6, 1918.

The students were part of Winnacunnet’s annual French exchange program under the direction of World Languages teacher Kelley Richards.

Each year students from Saint-Quentin, France, and Winnacunnet participate in an immersive linguistic and cultural exchange, attending classes in one another’s schools and staying with host families. Students also visit important historical sites to deepen their understanding of a different culture.

Saint-Quentin possesses a rich cultural history. It was severely damaged in both World Wars and occupied by the Nazi Regime, as it was important strategically due to its proximity to Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland.

While in France, students visited major sites including the Arc de Triomphe and the French Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where they observed French cadets of their age participating in the reigniting of the flame of remembrance.

Elizabeth Furtado, one of the students visiting the cemetery, says she felt proud to have, in a small way, honored those who gave their lives fighting for freedom for New Hampshire and their country.

“America has a long history and strong loyalty with France,” said Richards, who has led the France trip since 2017.  “This trip was an important reminder of the strong bond between our two nations and the real desire for continued cooperation.”