Michael F. Devine, Superintendent
180 Harborview Road
Hull, MA 02045
For Immediate Release
Friday, Feb. 22, 2019
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Longtime Resident, Veteran and Author Visits Hull High School for Presentation
HULL — Four-star General Richard “Butch” Neal (retired) spoke to Hull High School students last week about his own life lessons learned growing up in town and serving his country.
The Veterans Service Committee, a subgroup of the Hull High School National Honor Society, coordinated the event as part of its year-long service project on veterans.
On the morning of Wednesday, Feb. 13, the entire study body, along with a group of community veterans gathered in the auditorium to hear a presentation from Neal. Prior to his arrival, each student received a donated copy of his book, “What Now, Lieutenant” — his collection of leadership lessons cultivated from events in Vietnam, Desert Storm and more.
“Whether a lieutenant or general, college president or company CEO, ‘What Now Lieutenant?’ moments, though not as traumatic as mine, will happen and cause you to call upon your education, experience, training common sense and judgement to respond appropriately,” the preface of the book reads.
Neal first shared stories about the lessons he learned growing up in Hull, which helped guide him as he entered the U.S. Marine Corps and later became a four-star general. He spoke about friendship, grit, determination and the importance of taking the advice of those you trust. a
As Neal dove into the details of his life, he also touched upon the importance of perseverance, integrity and leadership, especially during challenging times.
Following his presentation, Neal joined students for lunch, where he answered questions, signed copies of his book and solidified inter-generational connections.
“As General Neal spoke to the students in the auditorium, it was apparent that every single student was listening attentively to his message,” Superintendent Michael Devine said. “General Neal is a huge supporter of Hull Public Schools and our students. Our town and our country are better because of his service and we’re grateful for his contributions to our nation and to our students.”
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