The school regularly focuses on their core values of love, service, learning, integrity, and courage, as seen on the large banners displayed in their gym. This ceremony gave the students a glimpse into the lives of 15 veterans who also embody these values in their love for their country, service to others, commitment to lifelong learning, unwavering integrity, and unmatched courage. 

Prior to the ceremony, Mr. Joe DeRing, an Army Ranger who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and a parishioner at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Lutz, visited 3rd – 8th grade classrooms to share his experiences as well as the deeper meaning of Veterans Day. This commitment to educating students about the “why” behind ceremonies and service projects is central to the school’s mission to foster both knowledge and empathy. 

To kick off the event and show their gratitude and patriotism, scouts led the veterans into the school gym, followed by students waving American flags. Principal Elizabeth Agresta addressed all in attendance and highlighted how veterans are the embodiment of the core values that the students are encouraged to model. The assembly also included an address from the Student Council president expressing the collective appreciation of the student body, a video presentation featuring students’ reflections on freedom and their personal expressions of gratitude to veterans, and patriotic music led by the school’s show choir. 

Each veteran received hand-made cards and letters from students at a small reception for the honored guests following the ceremony. One Vietnam veteran approached Principal Agresta and shared that this ceremony marked the first time he had been publicly recognized and thanked for his service since his return. “The warmth and gratitude from the students and school community finally made me feel appreciated for my sacrifices after all these years,” he said. 

We offer special thanks to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School for this beautiful example of Catholic community and for teaching students that the expression of gratitude can go a long way.