Veterans Day is an annual U.S. federal holiday on November 11 to honor all those who have served in the armed forces. The day originated as “Armistice Day” to commemorate the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Celebrations often include parades, ceremonies like the one at Arlington National Cemetery, and a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. local time.

History teacher, Mr. Adam Gardner recalled in our recent interview “So in the classroom, I tie Veterans Day into our content. I talk about the history of it, like the fact it was Armistice Day and how it evolved to become Veterans Day. In the classroom just kind of recognizing and creating that atmosphere of being aware of this major federal holiday in our classroom.” Adam Gardner teaches US History and Modern World History teaching his students year after year the importance of knowing about Veterans Day. Mr. Gardner shared, “Veterans Day, to me, is an opportunity to honor those who are serving their country. They’re making the ultimate sacrifice. They’ve chosen to do this sort of line of work. So it’s an opportunity to recognize and appreciate all of our soldiers.” Both of Mr. Gardner’s grandfathers were in World War Two and his father was in Vietnam.  He shared, “I give them a call on the phone, just like a conversation and my father will tell some stories of his past.” 

Sophomore, Francis Imperato shared, “Veterans Day, to me, means like, a time to appreciate all the people who put their lives on the line for our country. I will hang out with my mom and grandmother and we will have a barbecue or some type of dinner and if we can, we invite a family friend who is basically my uncle to dinner because he served in the army for 10-12 years.” Francis thinks “it’s important to celebrate Veterans Day not just here at East Haven but all over the country because they put their lives on the line and show so much effort to keep us safe and protect our well being from potential threats or dangers.”  Whether you’re a history teacher or a student, it’s important that everyone not just in East Haven but throughout the entire country recognize our Veterans who do so much to help serve and protect our country. We celebrate Veterans Day day here at EHHS by being respected and mindful of the fallen and the ones who are currently serving to keep our nation safe.