On Friday, November 11, Riverside School hosted its annual Veterans Day Ceremony to honor service men and women, both past and present. An annual tradition for the past 22 years, the school held an outdoor event on the front lawn attended by community officials, local veterans, Riverside School students, parents, and staff. The ceremony kicked off at 9am with opening remarks from Principal Christopher Weiss followed by the raising of the flag.
Students with relatives in the military presented flowers to their respective family members who were honored at the event. Greenwich Police Chief Jim Heavey then laid the wreath followed by a moment of silence honoring those who died in foreign wars.
Community officials including First Selectman Fred Camillo and Dr. Toni Jones, Superintendent of Greenwich Public Schools, were also present and addressed the audience. In addition, fathers of current Riverside students, James Harper and Steve Kilcullen had the opportunity to share their experiences in the military and what serving their country means to them.
“The whole event was a positive example for the kids of how our families, community and nation are all intertwined as parts of who we are and displayed how we’re all invested in that mix together”, said Veteran James Harper.
The ceremony concluded with patriotic songs sung by the Fourth and Fifth Grade Chorus and the Riverside School Staff Chorus.
“We were delighted to be able to gather as a larger community this year to recognize and honor who have served our country”, said Christopher Weiss, Principal of Riverside School, “It is our hope that our students develop a sense of appreciation for the sacrifices others have made on behalf of their freedoms”.
