Skip to main content

North Bellmore School District

Inspiring Confident, Passionate Learners

November 12, 2026

A Salute to Veterans From the Heart at Martin Avenue 

Student group photo.

Holding miniature American flags, students at Martin Avenue Elementary School in the North Bellmore School District filled the gymnasium and anxiously awaited the arrival of some special guests on Nov. 9. Children then applauded and cheered as veterans walked in and took a seat up front. 

The school’s annual Veterans Day ceremony recognized the extraordinary contributions of the men and women who served in the United States military. It gave students a chance to honor their service and express their gratitude. The veterans in attendance were relatives or friends of Martin Avenue students and staff.  

Veterans entered through a scout honor guard, as all students who belong to the Cub Scouts or Girl Scouts were invited to wear their uniforms. Julie Walz, vice president of the PTA’s cultural arts committee reflected on the contributions of veterans and the importance of recognizing their service and sacrifice. She introduced guest speaker Gary Glick, who enlisted in the Army in 1969. He spoke about his service, shared stories of the people he met and stressed the importance of a good education. Seven students also came up to the microphone to read poems and reflections, and music teacher Alexander Roff led the entire crowd in patriotic song. 

A “Martin Avenue Salutes Our Veterans” banner featured stars that honored family members of students and staff who served in the military. The school also created its first field of flags on the front lawn, filled with small and large American flags. As an additional show of appreciation, students donated to a supply drive for the Northport Veterans Administration Hospital.  

  A group of adults stands at the front of a school gymnasium while a large audience of seated children watches.   A group of children sit together on the floor indoors, focusing on an activity.

A woman wearing a headband and maroon shirt speaks at a podium in front of an attentive audience.   An adult and six children stand outdoors on a lawn decorated with small American flags.

A person wearing an ARMY shirt walks through a school gymnasium surrounded by students.   A group of children and adults gather in a brightly lit gymnasium for an event.

A group of children stand and crouch together in front of a large American flag decoration inside a school gymnasium.   A speaker stands at a podium in a school gymnasium addressing seated students and teachers.

A group of students sit on a gym floor holding small American flags.