Memorial Day occurs throughout the United States on the last Monday of May, which will fall this year on May 27, 2024.
“Memorial Day is not a celebration. It is a day to remember those Military members who died while in service,” Mrs. Michele Ferris, Becton Alumni and Military Appreciation Coordinator explains. “It is not a happy occasion and it is not meant for Veterans to be thanked. It is a time to honor those who gave their lives to their country.”
Memorial day is often celebrated by having cookouts, parades, large gatherings and the occasional popping of fireworks. Although America may celebrate Memorial Day in a entertaining or relaxing way, we cannot forget its importance, “To a Veteran, Memorial Day is an extremely sad day,” says Mrs. Ferris.
Memorial Day has multiple meanings to everyone in the U.S.. For veterans, it is the honoring of their fellow soldiers who passed and the gratitude towards those who made it home.
There have been hundreds of people who served from Becton’s school district, and plenty are still doing so til this day. Currently, there are an estimated 30 people who are currently serving.
Mrs. Ferris organizes a card system where Becton classes and teachers are given the chance to write cards for the families of the three Becton alumni who were killed in action or passed away while in service. When Mrs. Ferris meets with students, she gives them a bit of history about the men.
The names of the fallen soldiers are Joseph Pycior (graduated 1981), Michael Schwarz (gradated 2004) and Robert “BJ” Hudnall (graduated 1994).
Pycior was killed in action on 9/11 while on duty stationed at the Pentagon, Schwarz was killed in action in Iraq in 2006, and Hudnall died during training in 2010.
In addition, the Becton Marching Band participates in a local parade held for Memorial Day and the names of our three alumni who passed are displayed on a digital screen outside of Becton.
“Please also be reminded of incredible story that captured the heart of a nation – the story of the late Carlstadt, N.J. Patriot, Veteran and Prisoner of War (POW), Mr. Vito Trause, which you can view HERE.” Dr. Dario Sforza.
Remember to keep those in mind who risked their lives for our country and ultimately those who never had the privilege to return home, this Memorial Day.
