Locust Valley Central School District

Locust Valley High School welcomed United States military veterans to the auditorium on June 3 to honor their sacrifices and celebrate American history as we head towards the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding this July.

The ceremony, “A Legacy of Service: Celebrating 250 Years of the United States,” gave seniors the opportunity to speak with veterans from all branches of our armed forces. The veterans, many of whom are Falcons alumni, gifted each student a beautiful, tri-folded American flag and imparted wisdom gained from their time in Locust Valley and in service to the country on them. Veterans from Bayville’s American Legion Robert H. Spittel Post 1285 and Locust Valley’s American Legion Post 962 joined the district in once again providing students with an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the work that has gone into building and maintaining our great nation for 250 years.

Keynote speakers, longtime Locust Valley resident and United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and flight surgeon, Dr. Khawaja Saddique, and Bayville native, Class of 1984 graduate and highly distinguished United States Navy Commander William Hesse, encouraged students to be the next great generation of Americans by using their unique passions and skills.

“As you prepare and begin the next chapter of your life, remember that success is measured not only in what you achieve for yourself, but also in how we serve,” Dr. Saddique told the seniors. “Service is not limited by age, profession or circumstance. It can be as simple as helping a neighbor, mentoring a young student or in curating your community.”

“You received the symbol of our great country, but what does that flag represent? It represents hope, truth and justice and the dream” Commander Hesse said. “Having been deployed overseas in many countries, I can say many, many populations could only dream of the opportunities you have in front of you.”

As always, the Locust Valley music department showcased its talents, performing patriotic tunes from throughout the years. The band, chamber singers and orchestra perfectly set the mood for the ceremony and expressed the school’s appreciation for the visiting veterans. The Locust Valley High School Parents Council ensured that the stage and decorations were fitting of such a beautiful ceremony.