On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, World War I finally concluded. Armistice Day, or more commonly known as Veterans Day, is celebrated on November 11th each year to honor those men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. At OLHMS, we show our thanks and gratitude to all Veterans, especially those within our Oak Lawn and Hometown communities.
OLHMS celebrated the patriotism and sacrifices of these heroes on Friday, November 3rd during our annual Veterans Day assembly. OLHMS 8th Grade Student Ambassadors welcomed over 50 Veterans to the ceremony. Dr. Sean McNichols, OLHMS Principal, gave the opening remarks and welcomed the OLHMS community and Veterans to our celebration.
The Presentation of Colors was presented by the Richards High School NJROTC, followed by the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem. Eddy, Addy, and Danny, 8th Grade Ambassadors, said every veteran’s name to recognize and honor them, alive and passed. Our OLHMS Concert Chorus and Sunrise Singers sang “Armed Forces- The Pride of America!” By Larry Clark and Greg Gilpin, which honors The United States Army, The United States Marines, The United States Navy, The United States Coast Guard, and The United States Air Force. After the beautiful performance by our OLHMS Concert Chorus and Sunrise Singers, Mr. Alfredo Arvin, District 123 parent and former Air Force soldier, and Mr. Terry Vorderer addressed the OLHMS Student Body with a Veteran’s Reflection.
After Mr. Terry Vorderer’s speech, Basil, an 8th grade Ambassador, created and recited an original poem called “My Pledge to Our Veterans.” Basil was asked how it felt to recite his original poem at our annual OLHMS Veterans Day Assembly, and he said “It was an honor and privilege to say my poem at the assembly. It will always be a memory I cherish forever.” After Basil’s eloquent poem, everyone witnessed the beautiful performances from our OLHMS Concert Band, Malak honored and recognized all of the fallen soldiers at The Fallen Soldier Table. FInally, our OLHMS Veteran’s Day Assembly ended with “Taps” presented by Mr. Steve Imig, Army Veteran of the 6th Army Headquarters.
Thank you Mrs. Georgelos, Mr. Mamolella, Mrs. Strayer, and everyone who dedicated endless hours to make our Veterans Day Assembly a success. And most importantly, thank you to our Veterans who served our country- thank you for your service!
