On Feb. 8, Suffolk County Legislator Sam Gonzalez, accompanied by two U.S. Army reservists from the Fort Totten base, visited Ted Dieumegard’s classroom at Commack Road Elementary School to talk to fourth graders, and the Islip Middle School library to speak with students from Erin Anderson’s English language arts classes, as well as CARE and Keep Islip Clean club members. The purpose of the visit was twofold. Legislator Gonzalez and the reservists explained how important it is to recognize veterans’ sacrifice and commitment to duty. In turn, the students showed their appreciation with a presentation of handmade Valentine’s cards - and from the middle school, hand-sewn plush hearts embellished with American flags – destined for delivery to overseas service members.

“We feel certain that the students came away with a better understanding of what sacrifice and duty truly entail after this visit,” middle school librarian Kathy Ryder said.

Date Added: 3/5/2024