IN CLASS: This feature is part of an ongoing education column highlighting the various activities that engage school communities.
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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — A Staten Island elementary school honored approximately a dozen local veterans during a celebration earlier this month.
PS 54 in Willowbrook hosted its second annual Veterans Day Celebration on Nov. 5, to honor local veterans who have served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard.
“It is our privilege to pay homage to the men and women who have served our country,” said Andrea DeMaso, PS 54 Veterans Day committee coordinator. “We are so thankful for their dedication and sacrifice.”
“It is our privilege to pay homage to the men and women who have served our country,” said Andrea DeMaso, PS 54 Veterans Day committee coordinator. “We are so thankful for their dedication and sacrifice.”(Courtesy of Debbie Sander)
The morning began with a veterans breakfast in the teachers café, followed by a walk of honor through the school’s decorated first-floor hallway, which was created by students and staff.
The celebration concluded with a Veterans Day assembly in the school’s auditorium, which featured a Color Guard presentation, a performance by the school choir, and a slideshow highlighting veterans from the PS 54 community.
About a dozen local veterans were honored the annual event.(Courtesy of Marcia Marbury Kilpatrick)
Active servicemember Alan Bermego delivered the keynote address, reflecting on the importance of service, remembrance, and community.
“This event helps our students understand what it truly means to serve,” said DeMaso. “It builds bridges between generations and strengthens the bonds that make our community so special.”
The school also welcomed representatives from VFW 421, VFW Blazing Star Post 1574, Gold Star Post 1365, Rolling Thunder Chapter 2 NY, and the POW/MIA Committee. PS 54 also thanked its local sponsors, including Call It A Wrap, Trader Joe’s on Richmond Avenue, Chocolate Fantasy, Costco, Country Donuts, and PS 54 Veterans Day committee members.
Veterans were greeted by artwork made by students in the first floor hallway.(Courtesy of Marcia Marbury Kilpatrick)Send us your stories
Do you have a story idea for the In Class education column? Email education reporter Annalise Knudson at aknudson@siadvance.com.
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