O’Neal Honors Military Families at the Annual Military Appreciation Assembly
On November 11, the O’Neal School community gathered for its annual Military Appreciation Day Assembly, a tradition that brings together students from first through twelfth grade to honor past and present U.S. military service members and their families.
O’Neal PreK, JK and Kindergarten students paraded before the audience waving their flags just prior to the assembly opening.
Interim Head of School Steve Lisk opened the assembly by welcoming attendees and reflecting on the significance of Veterans Day:
"We gather as a community to celebrate our appreciation for the United States military—those who have served and those who continue to serve today. A sizable portion of our school community is military, and here today, we honor their service that continually protects and defends this remarkable country of ours."
"We gather as a community to celebrate our appreciation for the United States military—those who have served and those who continue to serve today. A sizable portion of our school community is military, and here today, we honor their service that continually protects and defends this remarkable country of ours."
The program began with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Haddie Habets, eighth-grade Student Government President. Students learned about the history of Veterans Day, originally Armistice Day in 1919, and its evolution into a day honoring all who served.
A highlight of the morning was a heartfelt musical performance of “I Love America” by the Fourth Grade and Upper School Choir, under the direction of Mrs. Amber Bertagnole and Mr. David Lussier.
The assembly’s keynote speaker was Captain Simone Woolley, a proud O’Neal alumna (Class of 2017) and U.S. Army Officer. Captain Woolley shared her inspiring journey from O’Neal to West Point and spoke about perseverance, moral character, and the importance of service:
"Even though my skills could allow me to succeed in the business world, they go so much further when I’m working for you—on meaningful problems that impact our community. Service takes many forms, and it always involves sacrifice. That’s why we have days like today: to acknowledge it and say thank you."
"Even though my skills could allow me to succeed in the business world, they go so much further when I’m working for you—on meaningful problems that impact our community. Service takes many forms, and it always involves sacrifice. That’s why we have days like today: to acknowledge it and say thank you."
The event concluded with the singing of the national anthem and an invitation for all military families to join together on the gymnasium floor, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of gratitude for those who serve.
Preceding the assembly, CPT Woolley spoke to students grades 7-12 about her experience at O'Neal and her goal for attending West Point as well as her present career in the Army.
Preceding the assembly, CPT Woolley spoke to students grades 7-12 about her experience at O'Neal and her goal for attending West Point as well as her present career in the Army.
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