Jack Ludtke
Business Manager
When integrated Union armies of the Civil War laid flowers on the graves of their fellow soldiers in 1865, they didn’t know they were starting a holiday that would become iconic in American culture. This holiday, then called “Decoration Day,” became steeped in American tradition, eventually becoming “Memorial Day.” Today, we celebrate Memorial Day as a way to recognize the efforts and sacrifices of veterans, both living and deceased.
STEM Technology Integration Teacher Tom Honohan, a veteran of the US Navy, can vouch that service life is tough. “Chaos becomes routine,” he said. “You are taught to train like you fight and fight like you train, so all military action you see becomes commonplace,” Mr. Honohan served as a Damage Control Assistant aboard the USS Arctic during the Serbian Revolution.
Mr. Honohan, who also worked as a division officer of the ship’s Gunnery Division, said that the transition to civilian life can be tough. “It impacts every aspect of your life,” he said. “The adjustments for some, especially folks that are in a relationship, can take a long while. You get this incredible sense of independence while you are away and then you get home and you need to drastically adjust to civilian life.”
For science teacher Tony Barnett, a veteran of the Iraq War, the military still plays an active role in his life. “I am a War Games Director for US forces in Korea,” Mr. Barnett, a current member of the Navy Reserve, said. “That means I train active military officers how to operate in Korea, and to familiarize them with the terrain, just in case there is ever a need to fight there.”
The faculty boasts many veterans among its ranks, including science teacher Paul Reid, a member of the US Coast Guard, and parking attendant Peter Barella, who served in the Korean War.
In the past, a Memorial Day assembly has been held the Friday before the three-day weekend, and will be held this year on May 25. Used as a way to increase student awareness of the holiday and of armed service life, the assembly usually includes guest speakers and recognition of veterans both in the community and in the staff. This year’s assembly will include local veterans such as Peter Langenus and Ed McSorley, who will talk about their experiences in war and field questions regarding their service.
Students have been audibly excited for this year’s event. “Honoring veterans is a big part of Memorial Day, and I have heard that the assembly is a great way to get a higher appreciation for the holiday,” freshman Carl Fagerstal said.
As for veterans themselves, they only hope that students learn to not be afraid of talking about the sacrifices that servicemen and women make every day. “Don’t be afraid to talk to veterans or men and women who are currently serving,” Mr. Barnett said. “Everybody needs to learn why people willingly give up so much for their country.”
Mr. Honohan agreed that students can learn a lot form veterans. “This Memorial Day, or just the next time you see a veteran, young or old… take the time to say, ‘Thank you for your service,’” he said. “If you have a moment, ask them what they did, and how they served. You will be glad that you did.”
