ANAHEIM, CALIF (November 6, 2009) In commemoration of Veterans’ Day, the cadets of St. Catherine’s Military Academy honored veterans with a special Mass and luncheon. Now in its third year, this special day provided an opportunity for cadets to meet veterans and thank them for their service to our country.
“Veterans Day shows cadets the importance of remembering and thanking those who have served and continue to serve our country,” said Captain Angel Ramos, St. Catherine’s assistant commandant. “This celebration also allows our military department to show our students the pride we have as former service members.”
The celebration’s events began with a school-wide Mass. Special songs, including Battle Hymn of the Republic and Eternal Father, Strong to Save were sung in honor of veterans and their service our country.
Following Mass, veterans and guests were invited to join the Academy’s cadets and military staff for a special ceremony to honor our fallen veterans, a new addition to the Veterans Day program. US Army Specialist John Hanpadungvongs, the Academy’s assistant band director, played Taps while the flags were lowered to half-mast. Bagpiper Tucker Flemming then played Amazing Grace. After this emotional ceremony, veterans and guests joined the Academy’s students for lunch in the cadet dining hall.
St. Catherine’s Military Academy, founded in 1889 by the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, is an independent Catholic school with a military tradition for boys in grades kindergarten to 8th grade. The key components of the St. Catherine’s program are challenging academics focused on the specific learning needs of boys and young men, spiritual development under the nurturing care of the Dominican Sisters, and a structured military program that builds confidence and develops leadership skills. The school offers both day and boarding opportunities.
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