Green Elementary School Students Learn the Importance of Memorial Day

Prior to scattering in all directions for the Memorial Day last weekend, the students at Green Elementary School were taught a very valuable lesson. Just after 9:00 AM, each and every classroom was emptied and all the Green Gators were assembled onto the blacktop. The students were seated into two groups divided by a vertical walkway.

The beginning of the assembly was signified with the presentation of colors from members of two different Girl Scout troops. Thereupon, Principal Joe Romagna welcomed the crowd and introduced some guests. He then turned over the proceedings to Major Jim Lyon (retired Army). Jim is also an active member of the VFW Post 6298 located in Pleasanton, CA. Major Lyon explained the distinction between Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day – the latter honoring all men and women that have perished while serving in the armed forces. He also articulated a very interesting piece of trivia. The legend is that Memorial Day was originated after the Civil War and was established for the last Monday in May. The thinking was that wherever one lived in the United States that there should be an abundance of flowers available at that time of year to adorn tombstones.

After a rendition of “Taps”, the colors were then retired and the students were released back to their classrooms. While the ceremony was completed in less than 30 minutes, we are certain that it gave the students much to think about before they headed into the weekend. And, in that moment, it was a reinforcement as to why we honor those “that gave all.”

OneDublin.org would like to commend Principal Romagna for constructing a wonderful teaching moment for his students. We also wish him well in his professional endeavors as he moves to the San Ramon Unified School District in the fall.