Serving the community since 1970
Serving the community since 1970
Teresa Burke pays tribute in ceremony
Veterans pose with the student council members of Teresa Burke Elementary School. (Photo by Clara Acosta)
Students held flags during the ceremony.
Victor Castillo was the guest speaker for the event.
Students sat quietly on the lawn.
Principal Monique Goodwill addressed the assembly of people gathered outside.
From left, Berny Lopez, James Medrano, Rafael Macias, Ray Arriaga and Tyler Perkins.
Teresa Burke held its annual Veterans Day memorial event on campus.
Local veterans attended the event Friday morning. Several arrived early and had a chance to visit with fellow veterans.
Prior to the ceremony, student council members greeted the veterans in the reception room. Names, ranks and experiences were shared, with a warm comradery.
The ceremony began when Principal Monique Goodwill welcomed everyone and introduced Wasco Middle School's band, which played the national anthem. The Pledge of Allegiance was then led by Zaiden Vaughn and introductory remarks were made by Savannah Sharp.
"Without their service, we would not have the freedoms we have today," Goodwill told the attendees. She then read a proclamation to the attendees stating that no man is left behind – including the families of those who've served.
Guest speaker Victor Castillo said, "The military demands respect. Be sure to thank veterans you meet along the way for their service." He shared his story of joining the Army when he was younger.
"Anyone who cares about our freedom should join the military," Castillo said.
The band played several selections of military tune.
Next, student Teagan Perkins spoke about how important it is to remember veterans and to thank them. Another student, Jasmine Martinez, read a Veterans Day poem. Goodwill then asked for a moment of silence for those veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Fourth-grade teacher Erica Arriaga read the names of the veterans to the attendees.
Among those in attendance were Marine Gunnery Sergeant Tyler Perkins, Marine 1st Lieutenant Christina Perkins, Army Specialist Marlene Monarrez, Army Specialist Kyle Spang, Marine Sergeant Ramon Arriaga, Army E-5 Robert Martinez, Army Corporal Juan Pablo Dela Torre, Army E-3 Monique Goodwill, Army Specialist Rodolfo Castillo, Army Sergeant 1st Class James Medrano, Army Sergeant Amanda Castellon, Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Raymond Rodriguez, Army Sergeant Berny Lopez, Army Sgt. E-5 Rafael Macias and Army Bernardo Palacio.
The ceremony concluded after students and attendees sang along to Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA."
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