In a tribute to the brave men and women who have served their country, Shenandoah Valley High School held a Veterans Day program on Friday, November 10th, 2023, organized by the Shenandoah Valley Student Council.
The event, which took place before the entire high school student body, featured veterans from Shenandoah's American Legion Anthony P. Damato Medal of Honor Post #792. Among the honored guests were Commander John Catizone, 1st Vice Commander Daniel Krauson, Ben Lawson, Ed Bickowski (Financial Officer), Fred Koch of the 82 Airborne, Rich Stevens (Service Officer), John Petritsch, Michael Elchisak (Teacher at Shenandoah Valley), and Robert Yudinsky (Employee of the Shenandoah Valley School District).
The program was emceed by Shenandoah Valley Student Council representatives Jesus Paniagua Perez and Jacob Coolbaugh, who welcomed everyone to the ceremony. Paniagua Perez expressed gratitude, saying, "Today, we acknowledge the men and women who answered the call to defend our country and preserve the freedom that they have ensured for future generations of Americans. Your sacrifices and commitment are legacies we will seek to emulate, and may your example inspire us to do all that we can to keep our country strong and free."
The ceremony began with a traditional ringing of the chimes, commemorating the signing of the Armistice that concluded the First World War on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month. This was followed by a moment of silent meditation.
George Lopez, a student at Shenandoah Valley, delivered a rendition of the National Anthem. The benediction was given by Service Officer of the American Legion Rich Stevens.
A tribute was then paid to soldiers "Missing in Action," featuring an honor guard composed of Michael Elchisak, John Petritsch, and Shenandoah Valley Senior Emily Petritsch, daughter of John Petritsch. A symbolic table was set to reserve a seat, acknowledging the presence of those brave men and women who are not physically present but are remembered in spirit. Two candles were lit in their honor.
Taps was then played by Victoria Hernandez.
Service officer Stevens then provided the "Requiem Roll Call" which included the story of Shenandoah native Anthony Peter Damato who was killed in action as a Marine in February of 1944. His bravery earned him the Medal of Honor.
The Shenandoah Valley Band contributed with a musical tribute entitled "This is my Country."
The guest speaker for the event, Thomas Dando of Gordon, who is the Chaplain of the Ashland American Legion and a former educator at Shenandoah Valley, shared his heartfelt reflections on his military service and emphasized the importance of remembering veterans on Veterans Day. Dando, visibly moved, held back tears as he spoke about his service.
The Shenandoah Valley Band contributed with a musical tribute entitled "This is my Country."
The guest speaker for the event, Thomas Dando of Gordon, who is the Chaplain of the Ashland American Legion and a former educator at Shenandoah Valley, shared his heartfelt reflections on his military service and emphasized the importance of remembering veterans on Veterans Day. Dando, visibly moved, held back tears as he spoke about his service.
Accompanied by the Shenandoah Valley Band, Valeria Hernandez sang "Eternal Father Strong to Save".
Service officer Stevens closed the ceremony with a benediction.
Service officer Stevens closed the ceremony with a benediction.
The student body remained silent during the entire service showing the respect that the Veterans deserved. At the end of the service, the student applauded and thanked the Veterans that attended.
Story/Photos/Videos by J. Reed / Skook News
