Herricks High School recently welcomed eight World War II veterans and one Vietnam veteran for a meaningful educational event held in collaboration with English 12 classes. The day was organized to honor and learn about the sacrifices made by the nation’s veterans.

WWII veterans Harold Cohen, Dominick Critelli, Arthur Grabiner, Lenard Jindra, Jack Stahl, Arman Tarantelli, Eugene Zanger and Vietnam veteran John Igor all discussed their experiences protecting their country during wartime. Additionally, Mr. Igor, who sacrificed finishing his high school career to enter the service, was presented with an honorary high school diploma during the events of the day.

Students expressed sincere gratitude for welcomed guests, all of whom hold numerous medals for heroism and selfless actions. Herricks senior Celeste Zhang said, “We owe them all respect and thanks for our freedoms.” She went on to say, “We are honoring those who honored our country with its highest form of service, those who once wore the uniform of our military.”

After introductions, the honored guests and students broke into small groups, and each veteran shared stories about the challenges faced, lessons learned, roles held, training, machinery, locations and more while serving the country. They also answered questions from students, who learned about the military civilian divide prior to this visit.

The event was held in both of the school’s gymnasiums, and each were decorated with patriotic messages of thanks and appreciation. The schedule of events concluded with the presentation of thank-you letters and lunch for the veterans.