OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- After a jury of her peers deliberated for a matter of minutes, Goldilocks was found not guilty in the case of Goldilocks v. The Three Bears May 1 in the 55th Wing Judge Advocate courtroom.
More than two dozen St. Matthew School third, fourth and fifth-graders celebrated Law Day with the JA staff. It featured an array of events, from a poster competition based on this year’s theme, the 14th Amendment: Transforming American Democracy, to a mock trial centered on the fairy tale, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, where the students dressed up as the different characters.
Law Day is an annual event created by the American Bar Association and is celebrated nationally. Its beginnings reach back to 1958 with a presidential proclamation from President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Offutt traditionally pairs up with local schools to educate children about the importance of law.
“Being a lawyer in the military, we don't get to interact with the general public as much as we would like to,” said Capt. Sung Smith, 55th WG JA. “I felt this would be a great opportunity to interact with the local community and showcase the legal office's role in the military, all the while encouraging reflection on the 14th Amendment and the importance of the legal system.”
The students were equally enthusiastic.
“My favorite part was the mock trial because it was entertaining, funny and interesting,” said David Burgos, St. Matthew School 5th grader. “I think Law Day is important because people can understand the law, learn to respect lawyers and people’s rights.”
Eli Mabbitt, St Matthew School 4th grader, echoed his sentiment.
“My favorite part was when Bryce [Baby Bear] talked in a baby voice,” he said.
He also added he thought the 14th Amendment was important because it allowed all races to go to school together.
“It gives kids the chance to learn about the legal system, witness the workings of the court and understand the history of law to truly appreciate the significance of it and the protection it provides,” Smith said.
Unlike Burgos and Mabbitt, Smith’s favorite part came after the trial.
“It has to be the discussion that followed the mock trial,” she said. “Each child had his or her own opinion derived from critical thinking and was eager to voice it. You could really tell the kids were excited to be heard and their opinions valued.”
Although the event was based out of the JA office, it was a culmination of efforts from base and school personnel working together.
“This event was a huge success thanks to the support from the vice wing commander, the chapel, 55th Mission Support Group, 55th Wing Public Affairs, 55th Security Forces Squadron, our folks at legal who put in much effort into organizing this event and last but not least all the enthusiastic kids, teachers and parents that came out to participate in our event from St. Matthew School,” Smith said. “Hopefully it was a fun and memorable event for everyone involved.”