On Friday, Nov. 10 in the Healey Gymnasium, the Veterans Appreciation Club held its annual Veterans Day assembly to honor those who serve our country. The assembly, led by senior and co-president of the club Luca Balzano, featured a speech from Purple Heart veteran and Florida Congressman Brian Mast while honoring other veterans in the Benjamin community.
Congressman Mast’s address pulled on the heartstrings of many in the gym. His story of losing both legs and a finger for the United States reminded all of the importance of being selfless and brave throughout life.
Senior Silas Rooney was honored to have Mast as a speaker and thought his speech was amazing.
“I have had family members serve the country so I believe it is very important to honor the veterans. I loved the speech since it was super motivational and showed that even though his service had a mental and physical toll, he still would do it again for our great country,” said Rooney.
The assembly also spotlighted Mr. Yannotta, who gave last year’s Veterans Day assembly speech, and Mr. Kenneth Archer, the Upper School’s Director of Multimedia Productions. Luca continued the assembly by honoring all service members by playing a short video showing the importance of what they do for our country.
Co-President of the Veterans Appreciation Club, senior Andrew Lappin, shared his thoughts on having Mr. Archer as a teacher and club advisor.
“Mr. Archer is a great teacher, but it is even more important to have a veteran as the advisor to the club. Having him around helps us narrow down the projects that we take on to those that are most important. I thank him and all veterans for their service,” said Lappin.
Balzano was honored to lead the assembly and believes giving back to Veterans is a great cause.
“Veterans are the backbone of our nation and my heroes. I am grateful to all who have served and those actively serving in the U.S. Armed Forces to keep our country safe. They protect my freedom and allow me to follow my dreams. We founded the Veterans Appreciation Club to raise student awareness for the sacrifices men and women in the United States armed forces make for us,” said Balzano.
The Veterans Appreciation Club holds many activities such as this assembly to honor veterans. Some of the activities include raising funds and toys for veteran families staying at the Fisher House in West Palm Beach, a home away from home that houses veterans’ families while they receive medical treatment, collecting over 1000 pairs of socks for Warm Feet For Warriors to benefit deployed military men and women, working with the Headstrong Project, and the Southeast Honor Flight at Palm Beach Airport.
As Veterans continue to give their lives for our country, Veterans Day gives the United States a chance to say thank you for what they sacrifice for our well-being.
