James Polos, Army, who served in Korea, reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a carefully folded napkin. Inside was a Purple Heart. “This was my dad’s,” he said. “I never met him. He died fighting in Germany before I was born.”
Moments like this—when students touch history and learn the sacrifices of service—are an invaluable part of John Jay Middle School’s Veterans Day celebration. This year, two dozen veterans from the local community participated in the PTO-sponsored breakfast reception and all-school assembly, including David Alfano, Lewisboro Chief of Police; John Lemke, Chair of the Lewisboro’s Lewisboro Veterans Advisory Committee; and Clark Petschek, Chair of the Bedford Veterans Advisory Committee.
“Our Veterans Day tradition is a way to say thank you, to learn about patriotism, show respect, and honor veterans,” said Principal Jeff Swiatowicz.
Dr. Eugene Tedaldi, at 100 years, served during World War II. The retired dentist enlisted as a 17-year-old in 1943. “It’s an honor for our students—and all of us—to be present with someone who served in Okinawa,” said Principal Swiatowicz.
Sixth grader Michael Wetzel was there with his father Michael Wetzel and grandfather Jerry Skalaski, both Army veterans. Two of his great-grandfathers and another grandfather also served. “I’m excited to be here,” said the student.
After breakfast, the veterans and their student chaperones walked from the cafeteria to the gym, where the entire student body sat waiting. They passed through hallways festive with Thank you Veterans posters the students created in social studies class. When they entered the gym, a medley of military songs and a stadium-sized cheer greeted the veterans.
Students presented the flag, sang the National Anthem, and honored the veterans through readings. A Veterans Day video montage, created by Library Media Specialist Jenn Useted, featured 115 veterans from the community, including those present. Student chaperones pined a ribbon of honor on each veteran, followed by a wreath presentation and “Taps” for those who didn’t return home.
William “Doc” Brady, Army, asked to say a few words at the end.
“Thank you,” he said to the students. “We love coming to John Jay Middle School for this Assembly. Thank you.”