Manchester Schools Honor Local Veterans' Military Service

MANCHESTER, NJ — The 18th annual Veterans Day Ceremony honored veterans and active servicemen and servicewomen from every branch of the military at Manchester Township High School on Friday.

The ceremony brought hundreds of members of the Manchester community to honor the military, and honored the close ties the district has with Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, district officials said.

"It is an honor to have such strong ties with our military community and to be able to come together in such a warming ceremony that celebrates them in a very special way," said Manchester superintendent John Berenato, who noted the district "is rich in many traditions and unique in that we neighbor one of the largest bases in the United States."

"The strong partnership we have in community with our military families is one the Manchester Township School District is proud of," said retired U.S. Navy Lt. Commander John Holzer. "There are three major holidays for the military: Veterans Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day. Veterans Day is one where we're recognizing people that served in any capacity, whether they did four years and transitioned out to the civilian world, or someone like me who did a whole career and retired. This is a day to celebrate them and thank them for their service."

The ceremony began with a presentation of colors by the high school's JROTC cadets, and included a performance by the high school's concert choir, led by Director Dwight Weaver, who moved attendees to tears with their rendition of the "Star-Spangled Banner."

Guest speaker Glenn Kildare, a Navy retiree, spoke deeply about his experience as a serviceman during his time serving our country in many capacities such as a distinguished Blue Angel.

Local bagpiper Tom McGovern of Ocean County’s Shamrock & Thistle Pipes & Drums joined students Ben Said and Andrew Perez (on the bagpipe and drums) for "Amazing Grace."

Trumpet soloist Jurissa DeOcampo brought the room to their feet in respect with "Taps." Most notable was the celebration of each branch of service as service members proudly stood while the Armed Service Medley was played by the high school's concert band, led by Sarah Culp.

District officials said the celebration was shared at the district's three elementary schools and the middle school, and finished at Regional Day School, where there was lunch with students, staff, community members and service members.

In recent years, Manchester Township High School has established the Hawks Hall of Honor to recognize all graduates who have served, or are currently serving, in our armed forces. The public is welcome to nominate graduates with military service for recognition in the Hawks Hall of Honor. Please send requests for information to jholzer@mtschools.org.