WVMS holds annual Veterans Recognition Breakfast prior to Memorial Day weekend

With Memorial Day weekend approaching, Warwick Valley Middle School held its annual Veterans Recognition Breakfast on Wednesday, May 21. Although rain moved the event indoors, it did not dampen the spirits of those who gathered together in remembrance of the heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

See a gallery of pictures from the Veterans Recognition Breakfast below this story.

The WVMS cafetorium was transformed into a patriotic dining hall, including a Missing Man Table, an empty table and seat, complete with symbolic table settings, to remind everyone of fallen, missing and imprisoned service members.

WVMS Principal Jared Yapkowitz and Associate Principal Andrew Rao joined teacher Joan Rueckert in welcoming the veterans to the breakfast, expressing gratitude on behalf of the district for their service. Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Leach also shared his appreciation for the veterans and their service to the country. Many of the veterans who join us each year for the breakfast are also generous with their own time, visiting our schools often to share their experiences, and the many opportunities afforded them by, serving in the armed forces.

The district was also pleased to welcome back to the breakfast Christian Farrell, Director of the Orange County Veterans Service Agency. Mr. Farrell talked about the importance of taking care of our veterans and the ways in which people are working to do just that.           

Members of the Honors Symphony Orchestra provided music for the event, including a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, joined by music faculty members Peter Van de Water, Christy Brown, and Shane Peters. They also performed the Armed Forces Medley, during which veterans from each branch of the military stood in salute as their march-past song was played.

A lavish breakfast spread was prepared and presented by students in teacher Corrine Lane's Culinary Arts and Home & Careers classes. Their menu offered an omelet station and sides, fresh baked goods and fruit, coffee and tea service, and more. What better way to demonstrate the skills they've learned in the middle school teaching kitchen this year?!

The middle school's group of student docents -- The Wildcat Ambassadors -- were also on hand. They were there to greet and help guests navigate the situation, including taking food orders for table service. They also presented cards and gifts to veterans during the event.

THANK YOU, VETERANS, FOR YOUR SACRIFICES AND SERVICE. It was our honor and privilege to serve our Warwick Valley veteran neighbors again this year.

The middle school would also thanks these community businesses who supported this event: Michael Urso at Westrock Mechanical, Town of Warwick Police Department, Warwick ShopRite, Pine Island Bagels, Corwin Florist and Greenhouses Inc., Marie's Floral Designs, Sobotor Training Systems, Adams Fairacre Farms, Warwick Price Chopper, The Crystal Inn, and Dunkin' of Florida and Warwick.