On Monday, our eighth grade students travelled to Galena for a ceremony honoring our country’s veterans. The students were invited by Galena Mayor Kirk J. Blackard. Blackard introduced the dignitaries present and read a poem about a veteran. Maryland State Delegate Michael Smigiel was the keynote speaker. In his address, he encouraged the students to dedicate themselves to service to their country. Also in attendance were Galena Council Members, Maryland State Delegate Stephen S. Hershey, and County Commissioner William Pickrum.
Students, Bobby Walton and Victoria Phillips, placed a small wreath on the grave of Galena veteran, Charles Jackson. Several veterans who served in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam were present, including one veteran who was 96 years old. Following the wreath laying, the students in attendance were invited to share refreshments with the dignitaries and veterans. Each Kent School student made a point to personally thank the veterans.
While the eighth grade students were in Galena, students from our fourth, fifth, and seventh grades placed white flags in the entry of the Kent School circle. The flags are especially fitting this year since our circle is named “Honor a Veteran.” Jim Barry, a Kent School Trustee, grandparent, and a veteran wounded in action in the Vietnam War, provided the flags. “I just want veterans to be remembered. The flags are not meant as a protest. It is purely an expression of gratitude to our veterans. I am glad the students took part.”
“I am so proud that our students had the opportunity to honor and appreciate our veterans, and I sincerely hope these events leave a long-lasting impression,” said Headmaster Chris Gorycki. “At Kent School we emphasize good citizenship and teach in an environment that fosters the growth of honorable, responsible citizens for our country and our diverse world. I am grateful to all who presented these opportunities to help our students grow.”
Kent School is an independent school serving children from pre-k through grade 8, located in Chestertown, MD. For more information about Kent School visit www.kentschool.org or call 410-778-4100 ext. 11
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