From Syria To Berkeley: Alumnus Gifts Army Treasure To Teacher

Former Central Regional student Gabriel Viana formed a bond with a school faculty member in the unlikeliest of places: lunch detention. It only made sense that Viana gave Ray Herrmann a gift that flew in an unlikely place: Syria.

Viana recently finished a nine-month tour of duty in Syria for the United States Army, working with ammunitions. He gave Herrmann a priceless gift Tuesday: the American flag that flew over Viana's base.

Viana, who graduated from Central Regional in 2017, said their original lunch-detention conversations made a lasting impact. He has viewed Herrmann — also known around school as Mr. Ray — as a father figure.

The folded flag was Viana's way of thanking Herrmann. Viana also brought a flag certification that said the following: "This flag of the United States of America was proudly flown in the face of the enemy over northern Syria at the ATHP supporting the special operations task force. This flag, and the service members it represents, symbolizes the sovereign power of the United States, its allies, and the unshakable resolve to defeat ISIS."

"Gabriel, your gesture not only made Mr. Herrmann's day, but it made all of ours too!" Central Regional Family said on Facebook. "We are proud to call you one of our own. We are so thankful for your service to our country and that you completed your 9 months in Syria safely and successfully."

Viana brought the flag and certificate to Central Regional High School. He will return to his base in Colorado.

"Mr. Herrmann, never doubt the difference you make in our student's lives just by showing them that you genuinely care about them," Central Regional Family wrote. "Words are power, and may the touching gift you received today always serve as a reminder of that."