On Friday, November 8, El Dorado High School (EDHS) hosted its twelfth annual Veterans Day ceremony at its Fallen Heroes Memorial on campus. Each year, this solemn event is supported by Placentia Boy Scout Troop 723, the Binnings family, and the school’s jazz band, vocal ensemble, and digital media arts programs.
The Fallen Heroes Memorial was constructed in 2013 as an Eagle Scout project by Andrew Binnings, a 2014 EDHS graduate. Since then, the Memorial has served as the focal point for honoring veterans during this annual ceremony.
“Veterans Day, observed on November 11 in the United States, honors all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, both living and deceased,” shared Principal Dave Okamoto. “Today, we especially honor the veterans who have joined us here, all the veterans of El Dorado High School, and three in particular who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”
The Memorial honors three El Dorado graduates who gave their lives in service to the nation: U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant William Harrell (‘92), U.S. Marine Corps Corporal Claudio “Nene” Patiño IV (‘06), and U.S. Army Sergeant Jason Michael Weaver (‘07).
This year’s ceremony featured remarks by EDHS ASB President Luke Gilstrap, who served as emcee, and a poem recited by student Elise Shuml. Former EDHS Principal Carey Aiello, who was instrumental in transforming the Memorial, also attended.
Speaking to the reflective audience, Luke described Veterans Day as a day of remembrance: “The individuals we honor today have led our country with courage and selflessness. To the veterans who have risked their lives and endured the trials of war, we thank you deeply.”
He added, “To the families who have borne the hardest news with strength, we extend our gratitude. In a world often marked by strife, we are thankful for those who defend our freedoms. It is a privilege to honor them today.”
In a moving part of the ceremony, Rodger Salkeld led the Veteran Roll Call. Name after name, veterans in attendance responded to the call until the names of the fallen Golden Hawks were announced. To commemorate these fallen heroes, EDHS trumpeter senior, Miles Olsen played “Taps,” the poignant melody traditionally performed at military funerals and memorials.
El Dorado alumna and former EDHS administrator Carey Aiello spoke on the significance of the Memorial and her pride in the EDHS community’s dedication to honoring veterans. “This monument represents our community’s spirit—a reminder that those who made the ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. This tree has grown, like the strength of our community, into something truly beautiful.”
Mrs. Aiello reflected on her own family’s service, sharing stories of her father and grandfather’s dedication to the country. “Their stories have taught me the true meaning of freedom and sacrifice. Today, I am filled with hope, looking out at our Golden Hawk community—a community built on unity and resilience.”
All EDHS students and staff were able to view the Veterans Day ceremony via live stream in their classrooms, courtesy of the school’s Digital Media Arts Academy. The full ceremony is available for viewing https://www.youtube.com/live/myQQk0HoDEE?si=edxCB1dpmErTGYSL.
Be the first to comment on "El Dorado Hosts 12th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Fallen Heroes Memorial on Campus"