St. Bernard Prep students pay tribute to veterans

Published 7:03 pm Friday, November 15, 2024

In a display of gratitude and patriotism, the students of St. Bernard Preparatory School gathered Friday, Nov. 15, to honor the service and sacrifice of local veterans. The special ceremony, held on the campus grounds, brought together members of the St. Bernard community and local veterans for a memorable event highlighting the importance of honoring those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

The ceremony began with an opening prayer by St. Bernard Chaplain Fr. Linus Klucsarits. Students, faculty and guests sang America the Beautiful and heard Cash Daily read the constitutional proclamation of Veterans Day. President Joe Biden’s proclamation of Veterans Day was read by Joey Shadowens. Luke Daily prayed for our veterans and following the prayer, Joel Rose introduced all veterans in attendance.

Two distinguished veterans from St. Bernard Abbey were in attendance: Br. Augustine Munkachy, Petty Officer Second Class, United States Navy; Fr. Patrick Egan, Colonel, United States Army; and though unable to attend, Br. Michael Gregersen, Sergeant, United States Air Force, was also honored for his service.

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In addition to the monastery veterans, several local heroes were recognized: Staff Sergeant Kenny Culpepper, United States Army; Sergeant Bill Ellis, United States Marine Corps; Private First Class Enrique Ramirez, United States Marine Corps; Sergeant Taylor Davis, United States Marine Corps; Sergeant Ken Philips, United States Air Force; and Captain Valjean Cox, United States Air Force.

The St. Bernard Band performed the national anthem under the direction of Jonathan Farley.

“Today’s ceremony was a meaningful reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans,” Fr. Linus Klucsarits said. “We are honored to have had the opportunity to recognize these brave men who have served our country. Our students need to understand the depth of commitment shown by those in the Armed Forces, and today’s event provided a powerful lesson in patriotism and gratitude.”

The event concluded with a prayer and lunch.

About Amanda Shavers

Amanda Shavers joined The Cullman Times in 1997 as the paper's first staff photographer. She has been News Editor since 2008. She is also Content Editor for Cullman Magazine (quarterly), Cullman County Graduation magazine, Fall in Love With Cullman magazine, Salute to Industry magazine and the Senior and Retiree Directory magazine. She is also Content Editor for the weekly St. Clair News-Aegis and she assists with the twice-weekly Athens News Courier.

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