Solvay Middle School Hosts "Take a Vet to School Day"

Solvay Middle School (SMS) recently hosted the “Take a Veteran to School Day” program. The program, developed by The HISTORY® Channel, allows for the community to show veterans how much their service and sacrifice is appreciated, while also allowing students to develop a better understanding of our history. This goal is achieved by connecting veterans of all ages with students at schools throughout the country – with the help of the “Take a Veteran to School Day” program.

To start the “Take a Veteran to School Day” program, students from SMS performed the national anthem. Assemblyman Bill Magnarelli then took the stage for a speech, thanking the veterans for their service. He then led the school in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Following Assemblyman Magnarelli, a select group of students then took the stage to read poems about Veterans Day to the veterans and audience members. When they were done, students introduced the four guest veterans – Sean Emmons, Marion Ervin, Stephen Moran, and Bruce Tompkins.

Each veteran spoke about their military experiences, offering different insights and stories on being in the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army. Their range of experiences showed students the diverse landscape of the military, giving them a better understanding of what it takes to be in the military and also a veteran of the U.S. military. Each veteran took the time to describe their experiences, and in turn displayed the pride in which they have for their country.

Students were given the opportunity to take part in a question and answer session with the veterans. Many students came forward ask a wide range of excellent questions.

The “Take a Veteran to School Day” program allowed for SMS students to gain a better understanding of not only their veterans, but also their community as a whole. The Solvay Union Free School District would like to thank everyone who helped to bring this program to our district and make this event such a success!