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This week we held our annual Veterans Day Assembly that honored three local veterans (John Horan-Kates, Bern Krueger and Ann Scott) and that allowed us time to reflect on the sacrifices U.S. veterans and their families have made – for us.
Although not veterans (at least for some, not yet), we also took time to recognize VCHS alumni who are actively involved in the U.S. Armed Forces. We are proud of these VCHS alums who have chosen to serve the United States.
PJ Dauphinais ’02 – Navy | Ian Ryan ’10 – Navy
Wilhelm Eyrich ‘10 – Army | Zach Farris ’17 – Air Force
Isabelle Carlson ’18 – Navy | Tom Engleby ’18 – Air Force
Jake Nowicki ’18 – Army | Micah Sharpe ’20 – Army
Landen Schmidt ’23 – Army
My grandfather O’Neil was a WWII veteran, and although severely wounded in a September 1944 battle along the Brittany Coast, he survived and returned home to his wife and two young boys. His example of sacrifice has never left me, and I’m deeply proud of his service.
This likely influences my thinking about not only our alumni but also our current VCHS students who are considering a variety of military pathways – enlisting, ROTC, one of the Academies, etc. In fact, with the Class of 2024, three students are pursing one of these, including Jorge Sinaloa who has already committed to join the U.S. Army after graduation.
So with the official Veterans Day coming this Saturday, take a moment to thank a veteran. And take a moment to reflect upon the tremendous privilege it is to call ourselves Americans.
Steve O'Neil
Head of School
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