Martin Avenue Students, Staff United in Remembrance
As they sat on their beach blankets holding miniature American flags, students at Martin Avenue Elementary School learned about the true meaning of Memorial Day during an outdoor ceremony on May 19.
Principal Dr. Michael Yannucci explained that Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend. It’s a chance to remember and reflect, while honoring the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. The ceremony was even more meaningful this year, he noted, because of the approaching 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
“This is not only a celebration of America, it is a day of remembrance,” he said. “It is a day to pause and recognize that the freedoms we enjoy each day were protected by courageous individuals who placed service about self. Many were ordinary people, with families, friends and dreams, just like us. Yet they made extraordinary sacrifices so others could live freely. Because of them, we have the freedom to learn, to gather, to celebrate and to dream about our future.”
Dr. Yannucci reminded students that patriotism is about more than flags and songs, it’s about character – “how we treat one another, how we remember history and how we honor those who came before us.”
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, music teacher Alexander Roff led the chorus in the singing of the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Six student leaders spoke throughout the ceremony, which included reflections about courage, freedom, gratitude, hope, patriotism and sacrifice. There was also a musical presentation from kindergartners, who sang “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “This Land is Your Land,” as well as a patriotic sing-along led by sixth graders. The program concluded with a moment of silence.
