Everyone likes a day off of school, but for students in Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) Veterans Day is more meaningful.
For students of the NJROTC program Veterans Day means more than a day off. They have a direct connection to veterans in the classroom. Students work with them every day and usually have a connection with someone who served or is serving.
To show their appreciation, the program participated in the Veterans’ Day parade. They marched along 17th street and Washington Ave until it ended on 11th street. Along the way spectators of the parade handed out American Flags to the passersby.
After the march, the NJROTC students filed into the stands in Flamingo Park. Four cadets Elizabeth Cheng, Thomas Pluchon, Kevin Acks and Pawin Wittayanukorn participated in a wreath ceremony, which is used to honor the soldiers died while protecting our country.
“Participating in the wreath ceremony was a truly amazing moment,” junior Elizabeth Cheng said. “It was an honor to present in the ceremony, let alone participate.”
Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine and various other special guests also expressed their gratitude to the soldiers and the importance of veterans day.
“Today we are in Flamingo Park honoring veterans for their incredible service.” Mayor Philip Levine said.
He later announcing the opening of a new park in honor for the veterans and thanked everyone for showing up. Many were humbled by the actions of the students. Veterans young and old all proud to wear their uniforms.
“I am very happy to see young students notice and honor us veterans again,” Korean War veteran Larry Borsari said. “I am also happy to see kids interested in serving in the military.”
The event ended with a picnic for everyone who participated. Students thanked the veterans for their sacrifice and bravery.
“To many other students Veterans Day is a day off, but to us it means we dedicate our time salute all of the fallen and current soldiers in the military for their sacrifices,” sophomore Sean Manson said.