River Elementary School Holds Annual Veterans Day Celebration

PATCHOGUE, NEW YORK—River Elementary School held its second annual Veterans Day celebration to honor courageous service members and veterans, as well as their families, for their selfless service and defense of our nation, democracy, and freedoms. A schoolwide parade was held on the back field, an expression of gratitude for current and former service members that connected students with the heroes in their community.

“It was a truly special morning for our school community, staff, and honored guests,” said River Elementary School math AIS specialist and building liaison Melissa O’Brien.

The parade path was lined with students donning red, white, and blue and holding celebratory flags and signs. Students excitedly cheered on veterans while the River Elementary School fifth-grade band played. The procession was led by the Patchogue-Medford High School ROTC and color guard.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by students in English and Spanish, followed by a signing of the Pledge by River Elementary School’s American Sign Language club. Following remarks by the acting principal, Louis Stellato, the festivities continued in the library with refreshments and meaningful connections being made between students and veterans.

For more information about the Patchogue-Medford Union Free School District, please visit the District’s website at www.pmschools.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PatMedSchools/. #PatMedPride.