High School Holds Annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony

By Jennifer L. Warren

HOPEWELL JUNCTION – It was a truly patriotic scene in Patriots country Wednesday morning.

An ensemble of American Flags lined the entranceway, “Proud to be an American” lyrics filled the airwaves, and high school students could be seen standing at attention as veterans from VFW Post 5913 made their way-some walking, others in a military vehicle, toward the large American Flag proudly hoisted and wavering at the School’s front entrance. Once again, the Annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony was about to kick off.

“Thank you John Jay for your involvement in Veterans Day as well as the competitions we hold that show you are truly interested in learning about us and what we do,” said one of the VFW members at the onset. “Today, we want to thank you.”

That gratitude was visibly returned, as hundreds of the John Jay students were attentively and respectfully listening in, absorbing priceless tidbits about the national holiday on a local level. Surrounded by veterans, Superintendent of Wappingers School District, Dr. Dwight Bonk, delivered words on the powerful impact of the occasion.

“It’s important we honor these individuals who gave us the opportunity to live in the best country in the world,” said Dr. Bonk. “Without their sacrifices, we would not have the freedoms we celebrate today.”

The event also included a John Jay student singing of the National Anthem. Students, along with faculty and staff, as well as a host of veterans could all be seen with their hands atop their hearts, many singing along and displaying patriotism at the school whose mascot is fittingly dubbed the Patriots.

“This is for you; it’s not for us,” said Virgil Capollari, Senior Vice Commander of VFW Post 5913,” who asked those in attendance how many noticed the Hometown Heroes signs on poles lining the nearby area as well as who personally knew a veteran to which a large contingent of hands were raised. “Our service to this nation is an honor and not a task.”

Capollari added, “The best way you can thank a veteran is by the way you treat one another; you don’t need to agree with everyone, but it’s important to get along, just as we did not have a say on who we worked with or led us, but had a shared responsibility to make sure we came home.”

Another veteran on hand, George Hemrogh, Past Commander and Present Adjutant of VFW Post 5913, was also deeply touched by the occasion and quick to cite the potent connection between past and present.

“We are here today for these kids, hoping they see how important it is to know about their country and those who defended it,” said Hemrogh. “We hope we are able to inspire some of them to do the same.”

That sheer gratitude and awe were returned right back to a group of local veterans-heroes- Wednesday at John Jay High School.

“The freedoms we enjoy today are all from veterans’ sacrifices,” said David Kedzielawa, Principal John Jay High School. “We salute and honor you, and thank you for your service.”