BRIDGEWATER – Students in Edward Graf’s Social Studies classes at Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School (SCVTHS) recently spent a day acknowledging and honoring veterans and Gold Star families. The event, held at a local VFW Post, featured speeches, food, and an opportunity for students to spend time talking to service members and their families, who provided a glimpse of history as seen by those who experienced it first-hand.
This marks the thirteenth year that SCVTHS students have organized the Veterans Day commemoration. The event lasted most of the day, with 140 students arriving early in the morning, before sunrise, to decorate the hall and prepare for the arrival of their guests.
The focus of the day was honoring those who paid the ultimate price while members of the military. Seven Gold Star families watched as students unfurled large banners honoring their relatives who died while serving our country. In addition, roughly 30 Armed Services veterans were honored at the event.
Following the ceremony, students served a hot lunch to their guests, and then joined them to eat and talk. After lunch, students and veterans broke up into small groups to discuss service, patriotism, and honor.
“Our students promote what we like to call an ‘attitude of gratitude,’” said Mr. Graf. “This event shows how much our school and our community appreciates the service and sacrifice of these veterans and families.”
Photo: SCVTHS Social Studies instructor Edward Graf speaks to veterans, Gold Star families, and students during the annual Veterans Day commemoration. This is the thirteenth year that his students have organized the event to honor those who have served our country in the military.
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