ADAMS, Mass. — Hoosac Valley Elementary School third-graders hosted a Memorial Day celebration for families, community members, local veterans, and school administration on Tuesday.

 

Guest speaker retired Command Sgt. Maj. Jason F. Civello, a Hoosac Valley graduate, asked the students gathered in the school auditorium to raise their hands if they liked to help people. He said those who raised their hands have a lot in common with military personnel.

 

He then talked about his experience in the Army and how it has shaped his perspective on Memorial Day.

 

"As someone who spent over three decades serving in the United States Army, I can tell you that military service is built on many things: discipline, sacrifice, teamwork, loyalty and love of our country," he said. "But there is something else that every service member understands. Service means that some will give everything and Memorial Day is about those heroes."

 

He added that he served with many people from different backgrounds, races, and religions.

 

"Once we put on that uniform we were all one team, one mission, one family. Among those people were individuals willing to sacrifice everything for the persons standing next to them and for the country they love," he said.

 

Civello went on to say that Memorial Day is more than a summer cookout or the unofficial start of summer. He said although there is nothing wrong with enjoying these moments with friends and family, it is important to remember the real meaning of Memorial Day.