Honoring

The Bravest

To the Editor:

Mixed in between Halloween and the New Year is November 11, Veterans Day. I have purposely waited to send this letter so it would not get missed by your readers during the holiday rush, media frenzy, and overcommercialization that exists between the aforementioned days. The content is far too valuable.

Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to extend a warmhearted thank you to all who attended, participated in, or contributed in some manner to the Newtown High School Veterans Day event. This event is in its seventh year and I think it has become a townwide staple.

For those unaware, the event consisted of a catered lunch by the NHS culinary students for about 70 local veterans, an assembly for over 800 students, performances by the NHS Concert Band and the NHS Chamber Choir. Personally reflective remarks were offered by Superintendent Janet Robinson; First Selectman Pat Llodra; Newtown resident and organizer of Valentines For Troops, Donna Monteleone-Randle; and Rich Giacin, NHS math teacher and Naval Academy graduate. The clear highlight is the recognition of veterans by students in the Guidance Honor Association. As the organizer, I served as the emcee and I humbled to do so, especially in front of those whose service experiences far outweigh my own “time in grade.”

New this year was a slide show consisting of 35 photos of veterans with direct connections to NHS staff members. Among these were photos of myself (Army), teacher Steve George (Marine Corps), teacher Rich Giacin (Navy) and Assistant Principal Jaime Rivera (Navy). Overall I think the audience was truly amazed at the personal connections our faculty has with the veteran community. We also took a moment to recognize members of the current senior class who have either enlisted or applied to a service academy. I do apologize to my fellow servicemen for mixing up two of the service hymns. At least I got the Army song correct. Hooah! My colleague, Mr Rivera, will not let me forget this obvious blunder.

Our main guest speaker Daniel R. Gaita is a Marine Corps veteran and lifelong friend of mine. Although it is not easy to engage over 800 teenagers in a speech about “service and sacrifice,” he did it and the students of Newtown High School are better off for it.

When planning and executing this event, the words of Sir Edmund Burke ring in the back of my head. “Evil triumphs when good men (and women) do nothing.” It is therefore fitting and proper and within the scope of promoting “civic responsibility” to take the time to honor the bravest in our community. They deserve more than one day. Thank you.

Regards,

Scott Clayton

NHS Assistant Principal

12 Berkshire Road, Sandy Hook                      January 11, 2012