LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

LINDEN PUBLIC SCOOLS, NJ -- From morning announcements to spirited assemblies, from handwritten letters to solemn wreath-laying ceremonies, Linden Public Schools overflowed with patriotism and pride as students, staff, and veterans came together districtwide to honor those who have served our nation. The day was a moving tapestry of red, white, and blue — a living lesson in gratitude, history, and community spirit.

At School No. 1, Principal David Walker, who earlier led a spirited patriotic ceremony inside the school gymnasium, guided a group of students outdoors into the crisp November air for a solemn moment of remembrance alongside Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins, Mayor Derek Armstead, city officials, and veterans from American Legion Post 102. Together, they gathered at the century-old World War I monument on Wood Avenue and East Gibbons Street — exactly 100 years to the day since the memorial tablets were first unveiled in 1925 to honor the borough and township residents who served in the Great War. As the wreath was gently placed at the base of the monument, students stood shoulder to shoulder with veterans, linking past and present in a powerful tribute to sacrifice, service, and the enduring spirit of Linden.

Across Hudson River in New York City, the largest student-run military organization in the nation, the Linden High School NJROTC, marched proudly in the 106th Annual New York City Veterans Day Parade, the largest Veterans Day event in the United States. The parade commemorated the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, three service branches born during the Revolutionary War. Dressed in precision uniforms, Linden’s cadets represented their city and district with honor, embodying the discipline and dedication that define America’s armed forces.

Back in Linden, at School No. 10, patriotism filled the auditorium as Principal Wayne Happle, staff, and families gathered for a stirring Veterans Day Assembly that blended music, poetry, and appreciation.

The program began with Superintendent Perkins’ inspiring remarks to the lively elementary school children.

 “When I think of the service you provided, it was service before self,” she told the veterans — and continued with students performing beloved patriotic classics. From the fifth graders’ powerful rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner to the kindergartners beaming as they sing You’re a Grand Old Flag, every performance radiated pride and purpose. The highlight came when former teacher Mrs. Linda Burt-Moquete delivered an emotional solo of God Bless the USA, her voice lifting the room in unity and gratitude.

Among the honorees were five veterans from Atria Senior Living in Cranford, who joined other distinguished guests. They included World War II heroes Edmund Fiorelli and Thomas O’Neil, and local service members such as Officer Raul Jordan and Officer Tavares of the Linden Police Department. Each received a certificate of appreciation, presented by students who beamed with admiration as they shook the hands of living history.

At McManus Middle School, patriotism took the shape of compassion as students spent their lunch periods writing more than 200 handwritten “Thank You” cards to honor those who served. The colorful, sincere messages — destined for delivery to the Menlo Park Veterans Home — carried words of gratitude and encouragement from the next generation to America’s heroes. “Each card is a small way to show our appreciation for the people who served our country,” said Brenda Kaneaster, science teacher at McManus. “We’re proud of our students for spreading kindness and letting our veterans know they’re valued.”

From the youngest kindergartner singing with pride to the high school cadets marching in one of America’s most storied parades, Veterans Day 2025 in Linden Public Schools was more than a commemoration, it was a community united in purpose.

As Superintendent Perkins reflected, “When our students honor veterans, they’re learning the true meaning of service, sacrifice, and citizenship. This is how we teach history — by living it.”