Lower Schools Honor Veterans with Special Chapel Services

This Veterans Day both Lower School campuses held heartwarming and inspiring Chapels to honor veterans and active military in the ESJ community, reminding the young students about the importance of this day and the sacrifices made by those who protect our freedoms. The campuses were decorated with American flags, patriotic banners, and pictures of veterans in our Lower School communities. Parents, teachers, and veterans from the community joined them in the celebration.

On the St. Mark’s Campus, ESJ parent CAPT Katy Pasieta, JAGC, U.S. Navy, Commanding Officer, Region Legal Service Office Southeast and former ESJ teacher Marianne Haferkamp, retired U.S. Army Electronic Intelligence Interceptor/Analyst spoke during Chapel. Fourth and fifth grade students performed a heartwarming song, thanking veterans and active military. Pre-Kindergarten students joined older students after the service to witness a special flag-raising ceremony by the Color Guard.

On the Beaches Campus, the service opened with the flag presentation by members of the Beaches Honor Guard.The Rev. Teresa Seagle delivered a special homily dedicated to service members. Third grade students then performed a touching rendition of “America The Beautiful.” The celebration concluded with a patriotic salute by Lynne Radcliffe who led the community on a musical journey through all branches of the military.

“The Veterans Day Chapel not only taught young students about the significance of the day but also instilled in them a sense of patriotism and gratitude that will stay with them as they grow,” said Leslie Sale, Christian Education Teacher.

Katherine Nott, St. Mark’s Campus Christian Education Teacher added, “By acknowledging the countless contributions of our military men and women, both through Chapel and on the Hero Wall, students gain a deeper appreciation and personal understanding of the sacrificial dedication within our ESJ community in service to others and our country.”