Gold Star Families Honored by SCVTHS During Annual Proud to Be an American Day

Photo: A cannon is moved into place during Proud to Be an American Day, an annual event organized by students from Ed Graf’s Social Studies classes at Somerset County Vocational &Technical HS. Throughout the day, Gold Star Families and military personnel were honored for their service.

BRIDGEWATER – The sacrifices made by service members and their families were recently honored during the 18th Annual Proud to Be an American Day organized by Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School (SCVTHS) Social Studies teacher Ed Graf and his students. The event was held at Washington School Park in Raritan due to construction of new facilities at SCVTHS.

The day began with the presentation of the colors followed by the American Bombshells singing group performing the National Anthem. The end of the anthem was punctuated by a round of cannon fire, provided by New Jersey Civil War reenactors. SCVTHS students Joseph Keck of Branchburg and Kevin Richards of Bridgewater were joined by scouts in the crowd in reciting the Boy Scout oath and law.

Throughout the rest of the day, attendees heard from a variety of dignitaries who all acknowledged the debt owed to the men and women who serve and have served in the armed forces. Among those who spoke about the importance of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made in service of our country were US Army Major John Hardin, US Air Force Colonel Joseph Ruiz, and SCVTHS alumni and Marine Corporal Edward Cunningham. In addition, several Gold Star Mothers spoke to the audience about service and patriotism.

While the focus of Proud to Be an American Day is honoring the Gold Star Families whose service members have paid the ultimate price in defense of our nation, two individuals were selected for special honors. US Army Captain Brian Faunce and US Air Force Major Kelliann Leli, both of whom were killed in action, received special recognition for their service and sacrifice.

The main speaker for the day was Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson who spoke about her service as a member of the US Air Force Reserves. She also reminded the audience about the “shared principles and challenges that are intrinsic to the American experience” and highlighted the importance of remembering, honoring, and being thankful for those who are members of the Armed Services.

Also honored were several SCVTHS students. Kavya Shah of Hillsborough and Sree Isukapalli of Green Brook were presented with the Washington Campground Association scholarship, and Pranavi Prayaga of Somerset was given the Somerset County VFW Award for Citizenship

While poor weather conditions forced the cancellation of a helicopter flyby and landing, attendees were still treated to displays of a number of military vehicles and performances by the American Bombshells throughout the day. Lunch was served to the Gold Star families, dignitaries, and veterans by SCVTHS students.

Mr. Graf summed up the day by saying “The students have done a great job of bringing people together to honor the fallen on Memorial Day. The Gold Star families, veterans, and all service members deserve to be recognized for their sacrifices. And, it’s nice to be nice.”

All funding for this annual event comes from donations and from the efforts of SCVTHS students.

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