Veterans and active members of the United States military received a warm welcome when they visited Edmund W. Miles Middle School on Nov. 6. A dozen guests visited classes on Take a Veteran to School Day, a national initiative sponsored by the History Channel. This was the middle school’s third year participating, according to social studies Chairwoman Jaclyn O’Hagan.

“Each year our students learn so much from the veterans and make personal connections with them,” she said, adding that the goal was to give students an appreciation for their service. 

Veterans discussed their reasons for joining the military, their experiences serving the U.S. and their lives after leaving the armed forces. Some showed photo slideshows, while others brought in memorabilia. Among the guests were Edward Plaia, father of the middle school principal, and Juan Leon, Amityville Board of Education vice president and Army veteran. 

Current servicemen discussed how the education they received growing up has benefitted them in their military service. They also taught students about the differences between Veterans Day, Independence Day and Memorial Day, and who each holiday was created to honor.