"Not guilty," were the words that came from the jury during the mock trial of Captain Alden Partridge. This was not just an ordinary trial; it was the trial of the very man who founded Norwich. It was an event that has never been seen, and an event that should have been attended by all students.

As the Corps gathered in the Armory, the faces of those attending told the story. Some were upset they had to sit and listen; some didn't care; while others sat and paid close attention to what was happening. And there were very few civilian students there. The lack of interest was shameful and so was the quiet exiting of most of the Corps members during the brief intermission.

Corps or civilian, there was something to be had in this experience for everyone. The benefits to students of criminal justice were obvious, but it was a lesson in history and honor. Many people in attendance will contend that a verdict of "not guilty" does not necessarily mean that Captain Partridge did nothing wrong. In many ways, this was a lesson about the honor code, as well.

This was an event that students, professors and alumni worked hard to prepare. Each day we walk up and down the hills of a campus that was founded upon his ideals of an educated citizenry. The entire premise of the education we are receiving stems from his vision. We should be thankful. Yet for one day, for a couple of hours, many couldn't pay him the respect he deserves.

Guilty or not guilty, this should not be the way we look at our founder. Each day, we should keep in mind the value of the education we are receiving, and the military life ahead for many of us. All this would not have been possible if not for Captain Alden Partridge.

The mock trial was a way to remember him. It was a shame more didn't take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.

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