Nathaniel Woodhull Elementary School recently held a ceremony to honor local veterans, organized by the third-grade students. The event involved researching the six branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and writing thank you letters to veterans. Students from all grades contributed to a "Woodhull Wall of Honor," displaying photos of local veterans against an American flag backdrop.
Veterans from the community, including Nathaniel Woodhull's chief custodian Mike Presseisen, were invited to attend. The ceremony opened with remarks from Principal Dr. Heather Murillo and included the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and a presentation of colors by William Floyd High School NJROTC cadets led by Senior Chief Andrew DiDonato. Thomas Colby, an NJROTC member who will enlist in the Navy after graduation, was also recognized.
Students led the Pledge of Allegiance and shared facts about Veterans Day learned in class. Third grader Alex Valenzuela expressed his nervousness but desire to be brave like veterans: “Talking in front of people made me really nervous, but I kept practicing because I wanted to be just as brave as our veterans who were heroes for our country.” Emma Hollywood appreciated bringing her father to school: “I get to bring my dad to school and thank him for being the bravest man I know.”
The ceremony featured students reading a poem thanking veterans and singing “This Land is Your Land,” accompanied by music teachers John Sapanaro and Chris Miranda. The event concluded with applause for attending veterans.
Ms. Kayla Schweers, third grade teacher and Community Cares Club advisor, played a key role in organizing this event alongside faculty members like Dr. Murillo, assistant principal Robert Felicetta, and others who aimed to instill community pride among students.
“Our students have shown that service and gratitude go hand in hand, and their efforts are a shining example of community spirit,” said Ms. Schweers.
Nathaniel Woodhull Elementary thanked several veterans for their service: Joe Stein (Army), Inesia Deschamps (Air Force), Chris Hollywood (Army), George Rodriguez (Marine Corps), Bob Roughton (Air Force), Rich Berni (Marine Corps), Jerry Perkins (Navy) and Kenneth White III (Marine Corps).