Middle school students pay tribute to local veterans

Written by Deborah Patterson Thursday, November 15, 2012 12:11 pm

Vineland High School Air Force ROTC cadets Cristian Jimenez and Christian Smalley provide a color guard for opening ceremonies.

PETERSBURG – A Veterans Day assembly held Tuesday, Nov. 13 at the Upper Township Middle School honored local veterans, highlighting the decade of the 1960’s and the Vietnam War.

The assembly was directed by Social Studies teacher Josephine Spinelli. Spinelli has organized an assembly every year for Veterans Day.

A special Veterans Day small ensemble led by music teacher Steve Skiscim played patriotic entrance music befitting the occasion. Students Forest Wan and Amanda Meachon then welcomed everyone, including special guests state Sen. Jeff Van Drew and Mayor Richard Palombo, school board members Michele Barbieri, Debbie McLees and Steve Martinelli and the guests of honor – the many local veterans who had reserved seats in the front row.

The assembly continued with a small skit performed by "Flower children" Grace Rutter and Alanna Palombo, followed by a power point presentation by Michael Beebe depicting the changing times and music and bands of the 1960's.

The flag salute was led by Liz Baldi and Christian Roberts. The Star Spangled Banner was sung by Sammi Wright.

Major Simpson announced the cadets from the Vineland High School Air Force ROTC were present to perform a color guard for opening ceremonies along with a demonstration and short presentation.

The assembly continued with various skits. Closing remarks included a big thank you to the veterans for their service to our country.

Upper Township Middle School teacher Josephine Spinelli, center, welcomes state Sen. Jeff Van Drew, left, and Mayor Richard Palombo to the Veterans Day Assembly.

Greeters for the Veterans Day Assembly were Aleva Parker, Mikayla Gephart and Olivia Martinelli. After receiving a guest pass, visitors were then escorted to the gym by members of the student council including Alina Chiccarine.

The Upper Township Middle School band, led by Steve Skiscim, plays “Anchors Away.”

Area veterans have a front row seat at the assembly and were flanked by members of the student council.