45°
Participating in the event were Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman and Senator Carlo Leone, as well as Darien VFW Commander Phillip Kraft and local veterans.
Following the “Veterans Honor Walk” and welcoming remarks from Principal Rita Ferri, Wyman led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance and spoke about the importance of honoring veterans of all ages.
During the event, students participated in a Q&A asking the veterans a variety of questions, including, “How did serving your country prepare you for life?,” “What was the most difficult thing you had to do?,” “How did the training you received help you later in life?,” “What was the first thing you did when you returned home?,” and more.
At the close of the event, emcee Kerry Donovan presented Kraft with a $2,500 check in furtherance of veteran recognition programs.
“Brave, honorable, dedicated and patriotic are just a few of the words that come to mind when I think of the veterans here today,” said Wyman. “These men and women have made untold sacrifices, putting America’s security before their own. For this reason, it is important that young people understand all that these individuals have done to ensure the freedoms we enjoy. I also thank Optimum Community for bringing this program to the students in our area.”
Leone noted, “Men and women who believe in duty, honor and country will always be an inspiration to others and a wonderful role model for young people. Programs such as this allow us to pay tribute to these veterans who are so deserving of our respect and also help students better understand what being a veteran means.”
Cablevision Vice President of Public Affairs Jennifer Ostrager said, “Optimum Community is pleased to partner with Hindley Elementary School to provide students with an opportunity to meet and thank these true heroes firsthand.”
Click here to follow Daily Voice Darien and receive free news updates.
