In celebration of Veterans Day, students at Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh in Hampton performed a color ceremony, giving special recognition to all Aquinas Academy alumni and all veterans who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The Nov. 13 ceremony was conducted entirely by members of the Aquinas student body, in second through 12th grades.
Opening the service was a student color guard presenting and posting the national colors and all military service organizational colors. While a reviewing stand of active duty, retired and former officers observed, the eight-person unit marched under the command of Lara Hainan.
Anne Dolan acted as the master of ceremonies. Other student speakers included Louis Bentivenga and Morgan Randall. The orchestra and choir performed the national anthem and other patriotic melodies.
The ceremony was highlighted with the presentation of a memorial wreath and the rendering of ceremonial honors with the sounding of “Taps” by student trumpeters. It concluded with the retirement of the colors.
The color guard departed marching to the orchestra’s rendition of John Philip Sousa’s “Washington Post” march.
“A few of the students in the color guard learned last week about the importance of military discipline, including marching in formation, and how George Washington passed the winter at Valley Forge training and drilling with his men,” middle school history teacher Greg Dolan said. “These virtues of discipline and self-control complemented today’s expression of patriotism, and our Founding Fathers would be honored by this tribute.”
Retired U.S. Air Force Col. John J. Hokaj was among the veterans attending the event.
“Veterans Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the selfless generosity of those who have chosen to raise their right hand and swear to defend these United States,” he said. “Whether it be during peacetime activities or hostile action, our citizen service members have committed to do what is asked of them by the president and the nation.
“The tribute provided by the students of Aquinas Academy under the guidance of Coach John Carroll definitely served several purposes,” Hokaj continued. “It evoked the emotions of those service members present regarding past actions, provided historical context to the meaning of the day, connected Aquinas Academy to that context through the roll call, and inspired our youth to consider not only their blessings, but also their responsibilities as citizens.
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“I truly appreciate the time and effort that went into making this day special and specifically recognize Coach Carroll, the honor guard, the commentators, the wreath bearers, the concert choir and the concert Band. I would also like to thank those responsible for setting up such a patriotic display. As an Aquinas parent, I am so pleased that our children are not only focused on academics but also are learning the importance of service to others.”