Veterans Honored In Westfield Public Schools

by Lorre Korecky

Students in Roosevelt and Edison Intermediate Schools in Westfield learned firsthand the experiences of military veterans who were invited guests of the schools during Veterans Day celebrations. School-wide assemblies were held at both schools.

On November 10, following the presentation of colors by members of the United States Marine Corps, student speeches and musical performances, World War II veteran, Dr. Frank Freer, addressed the filled gymnasium. He discussed both growing up during the Great Depression ear and his military role in the Second World War.

Brian Vieth, Social Studies teacher, presented Dr. Freer with the school’s “The Heroes Among Us’ award, and Principal Stewart Carey concluded the assembly with his gratitude for all veterans.

On Veterans Day, November 11, the Edison student body and staff heard from two guest speakers – Mr. Patrick Tuohy, former US Marine, and Dr. Derrick Nelson, Reservist in the US Army who recently returned from the Middle East.

Mr. Tuohy, a graduate of Westfield High School who served two tours in Iraq, suggested ways in which students could honor and assist veterans, including through the Wounded Warrior Project.

Dr. Nelson, who is an Assistant Principal at Westfield High School, cited the uplifting of spirits resulting from donations of coffee and candy that was sent to him and his unit in the Middle East from Westfield. He stated that even though he was thousands of miles away, he never felt closer to the Westfield community.

Musical performances by the 8th grade chorus and concert band during the assembly were followed by remarks from Social Studies teacher John Stasi and Principal Matthew Bolton.

Photo Caption - 

On Veterans Day, 8th grader Sophia Vera reads to a full assembly of students and teachers at Edison Intermediate School, while Mr. Patrick Tuohy and Dr. Derrick Nelson -- both having served in the Middle East – prepare to address the audience. Principal Matthew Bolton (seated in distance) thanked the speakers and reminded the students of the importance of respecting and appreciating the men and women who serve our country.