Eastview Students Delight Local Veterans with Musical Performance

Eastview Middle School held its annual Veterans Day Musical Salute this morning, in a performance that included music, readings and a video montage honoring local heroes. The school’s chorus, band and orchestra performed patriotic melodies for a full auditorium, with veterans from student and staff families as well as from White Plains veterans’ organizations.

Veterans in the audience rose and saluted in a solemn moment when the band’s trumpet section played “Taps.” A line of students holding U.S. flags stood at attention onstage while the chorus followed with “The Star Bangled Banner.”

Several students spoke about the sacrifice veterans have made over the years and explained why they are honored each November 11th. They also mentioned the Adopt-a-Soldier Program, in which Eastview participates.

United States Navy veteran Vito Pinto, a former Westchester County Legislator, spoke to the gathering about the reality of war, referring to the bravery of World War I and World War II veterans, as well as those who served in other conflicts. “Take a look around you,”

he said to the students. “They and other veterans serving after them were just like you, coming from different religions, racial, socio-economic, cultural and educational backgrounds, and yes, immigrant families as well.”

The hour-long program ended with a stellar performance of the armed forces tribute, “The Pride of America.”

Teachers responsible for arranging the program include Becky Hegenauer, Orchestra; Matthew Hommez, Chorus; Laura Mazziotti, Band; and Jody Kennedy.