It’s a tradition that started 11 years ago, and is still alive and well today, as Berlin Central School students, faculty and staff welcome area veterans to their school to honor their legacy and express their heartfelt thanks. Standing and cheering, and waving American flags as the veteran’s entered the auditorium at the Berlin Jr./Sr. High school on Tuesday morning, November 13, they brought many of the veteran’s to tears themselves.
High School Principal, Dr. Cathy Allain began the event in 2007 as a way to show the school community’s great sense of patriotism. It began with just a few vets back then, but has grown to more than 40 now.
Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin was the honored speaker for the ceremonies, which were kicked off with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by 2017 BCS graduate Ryan Gosse. Both Ryan and his sister KC are members of the Army National Guard’s Military Police, with Ryan also serving as a member of their Honor Guard, which escorts veterans as they are laid to rest.