A “time honored tradition here at Dedham Middle School” is what Principal Debra Gately called the recent Veterans Day Assembly at the school.
Bright and early that morning, the school`s auditorium began to fill. The DMS Band, led by Jeff Daniels, took to the back of the stage. The DMS Chorus, led by Jeff Taylor, was arranged on risers in front. Local dignitaries and honored guest speakers took their seats, followed by well over 200 eager boys and girls from grade six. Student Council representatives from grades 7 and 8 took their places, and the “tradition” continued.
After a brief introduction from Caroline Barkowitz and our Pledge of Allegiance with Cassandre Paul, Olivia Stippo told the crowd the “importance of Veterans Day.” It was on the 11th hour of the 11th day in the 11th month, that an armistice (treaty) was signed to put an end to World War I.
Find out what's happening in Dedhamwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Not to be confused with Memorial Day, where we honor those that gave their lives for our country, Veterans Day celebrates the service of all US Military Veterans. After a few bumps along the way, Veterans Day is now an official US Holiday and held each year on November 11th.
The crowd was treated to a heartfelt speech from US Army Sgt. Roger Pilat (proud father of DMS 7th grader Lily Pilat). After a rousing round of applause, Sgt. Pilat was joined on stage by (Ret.) US Air Force Sgt. Michael Monaghan (now a DMS School Adjustment Counselor) and the Student Council Members, where they took part in an official flag-folding ceremony.
Find out what's happening in Dedhamwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
7th grader Maya Acosta read the history of Taps, followed by a duet of the song played by Wyatt Staton-Todaro and Jason Leonard. State Senator Michael Rush was in the house, along with Veterans Service Officer Bill Aitken, Dedham Chief of Police Michael D`Entremont, acting Fire Chief Lt. William Spillane, School Resource Officer Richard Cawley, and retired Dedham Police Officer Richard Heyler.
Senator Rush took the stage and thanked the crowd on behalf of our Veterans (Sen. Rush is a US Navy Lieutenant) and let them all know how much he appreciated this assembly. After the closing ceremonies by 8th graders Daniel Perno and Chris Stronach, Veterans Service Officer Aitken joined the Student Councilors in laying a wreath at the base of the monument at the intersection of East St. and Whiting Ave.
Currently, there are well over 20 million veterans in the United States, and this day of honor and celebration is very important to each of them. Congratulations DMS, on a job well done!
Story and Photos by: Joe Kilroy
