Local Veterans Visit Greenvale Classrooms

Greenvale had a number of very special visitors on Monday morning, as the school celebrated Veterans Day a bit early by inviting local service members to come and speak with students about their experiences in the armed forces. 

This is the second year that the school has opened its doors to local veterans, something that Greenvale Principal Joanna Sanese feels is fast becoming a wonderful tradition.

“We feel that this is an important event for the veterans of our community, so they know how treasured they are,” said Sanese. “We also think that it’s important for students to get a better understanding of the sacrifices these individuals have made for our freedom.”

The visiting veterans served across a number of branches of the armed services, such as Vito Pinto, a retired Navy flight officer, and Charles You, a current USMC reservist. The visitors spent time speaking to the youngsters in their classrooms before being treated to breakfast and a rousing rendition of ‘America the Beautiful’ by fifth grade members of Greenvale’s band, orchestra, and chorus. 

Sanese said she was heartened to hear the questions asked by her young students, which ranged from where the veterans served, to what the stripes on a Marine’s uniform signify. That inquisitiveness, she said, is a sign that the youngsters are actively pursuing knowledge about the world around them.

“It was great to see them ask these questions and get a deeper understanding of what it’s like to serve in the military,” she said. “But it’s also important for them to understand that being in the military isn’t just about war; it’s about doctors, nurses, lawyers and mechanics. Anyone can serve our country in any capacity. 

“They learned about all the things that go into serving our country,” she added. “So giving the kids an opportunity to ask these questions is key.”