Flags for Freedom ceremony inspires patriotism among Cold Spring Harbor graduates

Continuing a meaningful tradition, Cold Spring Harbor Jr./Sr. High School held its annual Flags for Freedom ceremony on June 9. Each graduating senior received an American flag, folded with care by underclassmen, with support from Operation Democracy. This powerful gesture reinforces a simple mission: that every American high school graduate receives a flag and understands the significance of the sacrifices it represents.

This year’s event was particularly poignant. As part of the school’s partnership with the Remembrance Bowl, Superintendent Joseph Monastero, Principal Danial Danbusky and Director Megan Gieser, and 13 students had just returned from participating in the 81st anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France. Their experiences abroad brought a deeper connection to the ceremony and the historical legacy it honors.

Director of Humanities Megan Gieser shared, “This moment is especially meaningful as we recently commemorated Memorial Day and D-Day and had the rare privilege of traveling to Normandy this past week – an experience I cannot begin to articulate. We walked the very ground where history was made, where so many gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today. Standing there, hearing the stories of survivors and veterans, we were reminded of the leadership, empathy and character that continue to inspire us.”

Keynote speaker Dr. Reanna Fulton, assistant superintendent of technology, also brought a deeply personal perspective. Dr. Fulton, a third-generation member of the U.S. military and veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, shared, “I chose to answer the call to serve this great nation at the age of 18 and am a third-generation member of the U.S. military. Just remember, no matter what path you take in life, be grateful for the sacrifice that enabled you to do so. If you live by the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment, you will go far.”

Mr. Monastero shared the importance of the trip in never forgetting the sacrifices made, both then and now, to preserve freedom. As a gesture of thanks, Mr. Monastero presented the veterans with glass jars containing sand collected from the beaches of Normandy.

Principal Daniel Danbusky closed the event by urging students to reflect on the significance of the flags they received. “Please remember the hands that passed you this flag,” he said. “Accept it not just as a symbol of your country, but as a gift from those who have protected it.”

 

Photo Captions: 

1-2: Cold Spring Harbor Jr./Sr. High School held its annual Flags for Freedom ceremony on June 9.

3: Senior Ryan Reynolds had the distinct privilege of receiving her flag from her brother, USMA graduate Second Lieutenant Casey Reynolds.

 

Photo courtesy of Cold Spring Harbor Central School District