Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day at the J. Turner Hood Elementary School

 

Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day at the J. Turner Hood Elementary School

November 13, 2025
By Dr. Glen McKay, Principal

On Thursday, November 13, the J. Turner Hood Elementary School community came together for one of our most meaningful annual traditions — our Veterans Day Ceremony and Concert. This year’s event, held on Cavalieri Field, was a beautiful celebration of gratitude, patriotism, and community.

From the moment our students arrived dressed proudly in red, white, and blue, the spirit of appreciation filled the air. Our third graders led the ceremony with poise and heart, sharing songs, reflections, and readings that reminded us all of the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

I opened the ceremony by welcoming our students, staff, families, and honored guests — and by thanking our school community for showing such heartfelt patriotism. A special round of applause went to our third graders, who worked tirelessly to prepare for this event, and to their teachers — Mrs. Wright, Mrs. Costa, Mrs. Pacheco, Mrs. Marcus, and Ms. Valdez — for their thoughtful planning and support.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without Ms. Comeau, our talented and dedicated music teacher. Her creativity and love of country shine through every note, and her leadership brings the meaning of Veterans Day to life for our students.

During the ceremony, we paused to recognize and thank the veterans in attendance — including Jon Burnham, Steven Palmer, and Richard Brown — for their service and courage. It was a powerful moment as our students stood to applaud these individuals who have given so much to protect our freedoms.

Before continuing, we joined together as a school community to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, led by our students — a simple, unifying reminder of what it means to honor our nation and those who serve it.

For me, Veterans Day has always held personal meaning. My father served in the U.S. Air Force, and his service shaped his values — discipline, gratitude, and deep respect for our country. He taught me that patriotism isn’t only about waving a flag; it’s about doing your part each day to make your community and your country better. At the Hood School, that same spirit shines through when our students help a classmate, stand up for what’s right, or simply do their best.

This year, we were deeply honored to welcome Captain Stephen Castinetti, U.S. Navy (Ret.) as our guest speaker. Captain Castinetti’s remarkable career began during the Vietnam era and spanned nearly four decades. His service as a cryptologist took him around the world — from Panama to Spain, Scotland, and Germany — and he concluded his career aboard the historic USS Constitution, earning the Meritorious Service Medal among numerous other honors. Despite his distinguished record, it is his humility and dedication to service that most inspire those who meet him.

Captain Castinetti shared reflections on service, leadership, and gratitude that deeply resonated with both students and adults alike. His words served as a meaningful reminder of why we gather each November — to remember, reflect, and give thanks.

The morning continued with a heartfelt concert led by our third-grade students, featuring patriotic songs such as:

  • “The Star-Spangled Banner”

  • “Yankee Doodle’s Pony”

  • “America the Beautiful”

  • “The Stars and Stripes Forever”

Between songs, students shared the history and meaning of the National Anthem, the purpose of Veterans Day, and the significance of each branch of the U.S. military — Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Student artwork celebrating veterans was also displayed, adding color and creativity to the day.

As we closed the ceremony, I was filled with pride — not only for our students’ performances, but for the compassion, respect, and gratitude they showed throughout. These moments remind us that our children understand, even at a young age, the importance of service, sacrifice, and community.

On behalf of the entire J. Turner Hood School, I want to thank everyone who helped make this Veterans Day celebration such a success — our teachers, students, families, and of course, our veterans. Together, we continue to honor those who have served and to inspire the next generation to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy.

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