VIDEO: Lakeside Honors Local Veterans in Heartfelt Ceremony
The Lakeside School community gathered on Nov. 6 for its annual Veterans Day ceremony, honoring 13 local veterans, including parents and grandparents of students and members of the school staff, for their service and sacrifice in the United States Armed Forces.
Hosted by the Lakeside PTA and supported by staff, students, and families, the ceremony brought together community members, district administrators, and local elected officials.
PTA member Gina Sonbert coordinated the event in collaboration with Lakeside staff. Although Sonbert traditionally honors her father during the ceremony, he passed away unexpectedly two weeks prior. His widow accepted the recognition in his memory.
Before the ceremony, Legis. Michael J. Giangregorio and Sen. Steve Rhoads presented the veterans with proclamations from their respective offices.
The program opened with Lakeside's student color guard presenting the flags, followed by a moving performance of patriotic songs led by music teacher Jeffrey Glemboski. Following an introduction by sixth graders and Student Council representative Jaclyn Koslow, Principal Libby Trencheny and Assistant Principal Chris Colarossi shared biographies of each honoree. Students then presented the veterans with flowers as a gesture of gratitude and appreciation.
In her remarks, Principal Trencheny emphasized the courage and sacrifices made by veterans and their families.
"Veterans have made a commitment to protect our country and help keep us safe. Serving in the military takes courage, strength, teamwork, and sacrifice. Some of our veterans have served in places far away from their families. They may have missed birthdays, holidays, school events, and other important moments. Their families also made sacrifices while their loved ones were serving our country. Veterans Day gives us an opportunity to stop and say two very important words: thank you."
Student Council representative Jaclyn Koslow also reflected on the importance of recognizing all who have served, noting, "Every single branch is equally important to all of us, and each serves the state in a different way. Veterans Day is a day to appreciate and recognize the people who have sacrificed all they could for our country."