7 Nov 2003
20 DISD-Employees Currently on Military Duty Also Recognized
DALLAS–Dallas veterans who left high school before graduation to serve in World War II received belated recognition in a tribute to patriotism Nov. 7.
The Patriotic Assembly and World War II Veterans Diploma Ceremony recognized veterans who left school to enlist in the armed forces.
"The goal of this event is to shine the light of appreciation on veterans of World War II and on all veterans. Our district is fortunate to have among its ranks hundreds of service men and women," said Superintendent Mike Moses. "These individuals have distinguished themselves by stepping out of their ordinary lives to make an extraordinary impact on the lives of others."
Superintendent Moses and Board President Hollis Brashear presented diplomas to Kenneth Brandenburg, U. S. Navy, a graduate from Dallas/Crozier Technical School; Jerry Passmore, U. S. Navy, Dallas/Crozier Technical School; William Standley, U. S. Navy, Dallas/Crozier Technical School; Art Breault Jr., U.S. Air Force, North Dallas High School and Robert Newberry, U.S. Navy, Woodrow Wilson High School. Also honored, Samuel E. McGowan, U.S. Army, Dallas/Crozier Technical School, couldn't attend the event.
In 2001, the DISD held its first patriotic assembly to award diplomas to World War II veterans who left school to enlist in the armed forces. Since then, more than 100 WW II veterans who were honorably discharged have received their high school diplomas.
The event also recognizes the more than 400 DISD employees who have identified themselves as military veterans, 20 are currently on or have recently returned from active duty. These employees, or their families, were presented an award in recognition of their service to the country. To reflect on the occasion, John Ireland Elementary School Assistant Principal Bill Martinez spoke about his experience in the country of Bahrain, where he was recently stationed on military duty.
As part of the recognition, all military veterans currently working for the district will receive a specially-designed "Service Above Self" pin and Veterans Day appreciation card from Dr. Moses.
One of the highlights of the event was A Tribute to Patriotism, a salute in words and music to the veterans by some of the district's most talented students. The student performers, along with an audience of juniors from the seven high schools that were open when the veterans left for their military service, received a history lesson beyond any textbook.
"I encourage you to reflect on the concept of service above self," Moses told the students. "I challenge you to seek an oppotunity to be of service."
Veterans Day is Nov. 11.