Nine seniors who are entering military service upon graduation from Walt Whitman High School this year were honored at the South Huntington School District’s annual Military Breakfast on June 11th. Local dignitaries, active service members, and veterans joined families, administrators, and school board members at the James Kaden Administrative Offices to applaud the young men and women who have chosen to serve our country in the United States Armed Forces.

“As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation, it is especially meaningful to reflect on the legacy you are joining,” said Whitman Principal Dr. John Murphy. “Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of ordinary citizens made the decision to stand against oppression in the pursuit of liberty and freedom of choice. They were farmers, tradesmen, merchants, and neighbors, not soldiers—people who believed that some things were worth sacrificing for and worth defending.”

“Thank you for choosing a path defined by service, sacrifice, and purpose," Superintendent Dr. Vito D’Elia said as he addressed the students. “At a time when countless opportunities lie before you, you have answered a call that requires courage, selflessness, and an unwavering dedication to something larger than yourself. May you serve with pride, lead with honor, and always remember that South Huntington will be cheering you on every step of the way.”

The following students have committed to serving their country across various branches of the United States Armed Forces and military academies:

• United States Navy: Sheily Anai Corado Perez, Katie Escobar Lazo, and Marc-Legend Milbin
• United States Air Force: Mikaelo Campbell and Matteo Holmgren
• United States Army: Bryan Mendoza Molina and Lucas Nazario
• United States Marine Corps: Steven Garcia
• United States Coast Guard Academy: Ryan Pastore

Each student was presented with a “Key to the District” and a commemorative medallion featuring the seal of their respective military branch. They also received official proclamations from local, county, state, and national officials representing Huntington.

Additionally, Dr. Murphy presented each student with a compass “to always point you home.”

“May it always help you find your way back to your families, back to your friends, back to the community that believes in you, and back to the school that will forever be proud of you,” Dr. Murphy said.

Special thanks and recognition go to the parents and families of these enlistees, whose encouragement and support have helped shape the character of these remarkable graduates. 

Thank you to South Huntington Nutrition Services for the delicious breakfast that our honorees and special guests enjoyed.

 

**Photo Gallery**

 

Walt Whitman High School principal, Dr. John Murphy (left), stood proudly next to his seniors who have chosen to enlist in the United States Armed Forces. 

 

Carlo Giordano, decorated veteran, Walt Whitman High School alum, and American Legion Post 1244 Commander, shared his gratitude with the military bound students and their families. 

 

Thank you to the South Huntington Nutrition Services for the delicious breakfast that our honorees and special guests enjoyed.

 

Families, school administrators, local politicians and military guests from various branches of the armed forces joined together to congratulate and thank this year’s enlisted seniors from Walt Whitman.