On May 18, the Amityville Veterans of Foreign Wars hosted its third annual Patriot's Pen award ceremony at Edmund W. Miles Middle School.
The Patriot’s Pen is a national essay contest that encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme. This year's theme was “My pledge to our veterans.”
Among the district administrators to attend the ceremony were Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edward Fale, Assistant Superintendent for Finance & Operations Olivia Buatsi, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Dr. Bridgette Waite, Edmund W. Miles Middle School Principal Rose Hutcherson and Board of Education 2nd Vice President Carol Seehof.
The evening began with patriotic songs performed by the Amityville pit orchestra, under the direction of Ms. Ferrante. The event was emceed by VFW Vice Commander and Amityville Board of Education trustee Juan Leon. VFW member and fellow board trustee Dave Heller was also part of the selection committee. Additionally, middle school teacher Patti Dieck was recognized during the ceremony for her dedication to education and veterans’ programs.
The top four winners recited their essays to the audience, and each were presented with an American flag, a VFW Certificate, a medal and a gift card. Several local elected officials also recognized the students including Amityville Village trustee Kevin Smith, Village Justice Joseph Calabrese; State Sen. Monica Martinez; Town Councilman DuWayne Gregory; representing Congressman Andrew Garbarino, Wendy Rodriguez, and representing State Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre, Brendan Cunningham.
The Amityville School District commends all of the students who were recognized at the annual Patriot's Pen award ceremony.
Photo captions:
1-2: On May 18, the Amityville Veterans of Foreign Wars hosted its third annual Patriot's Pen award ceremony at Edmund W. Miles Middle School.
3-5: The top four winners of the Patriot’s Pen essay contest recited their essays to the audience.
6: The evening began with patriotic songs performed by the Amityville pit orchestra, under the direction of Ms. Ferrante.
Date Added: 5/23/2023