One perk of living near Washington, D.C., is the thought that you might get to visit the White House. Most are still waiting for that invitation, but 46 Quantico Middle/High School students can check the White House off their bucket lists. QMHS staff and students visited the White House to participate in a special Grammy Museum educational workshop, “Stars and Stripes Forever: A History of Music and the Military.”

“I have always wanted to go inside the White House and I was finally able to fulfill that dream,” said Destiny Oakley. “Attending the event inside the White House, getting to hear [Michelle] Obama as well as the other amazing people put this experience over the top.”

The workshop was presented by the Grammy Museum in cooperation with The White House, WETA and the Kent Ehrilich Productions. It was set in the East room of the White House, giving students a more intimate setting for the open discussion with a panel of guests to include rapper/actor Common and singer Willie Nelson.

The workshop was hosted by the first lady, whose opening speech focused primarily on the importance of getting to know the stories of military children and military family life.

“Most people do not understand the life of military children and the sacrifices that we make alongside our parents,” said Oakely. “As Mrs. Obama said, there are military children all over the country and the world … once people understand our stories; they can understand our unique qualities and needs.”

Obama who seemed to be the highlight for most of the students also said the military children are “true heroes.”

“Mrs. Obama made it clear that she wanted to thank our military by inviting us to be at the White House to show the connection music gives all of us, “ said student Emily. “I was very appreciative of this gesture because it meant a lot that she would take time out of her busy schedule and pay such a tribute to military families.”

An overview of the origins of music’s place in military life and talk about the impact of music in times of war was facilitated by Grammy Museum Executive Director, Bob Santelli who was joined on stage by musical guests who answered specific questions from students. The cozy environment, surprise musicians, and the way students and guests were treated will long be remembered.

“Everything was done with class. Our kids were the largest group and many sat near front and she [Ms. Obama] made them feel right at home,” said QMHS Principal Michael Johnson. “We try to expose them to as many opportunities as we can because we don’t know which ones will change their lives. I believe that the event certainly had a huge impact on them, as they had a chance to be a part of history. They certainly did appreciate it with humility as I watched when I was standing on the red carpet and they were toasting each other with their water glasses.