Honoring Veterans Through Their Letters

Honoring Veterans Through Their Letters

On Veterans Day, the School assembled to honor those who have served in the armed forces. The program included thoughtful reflections, family stories, and poignant readings in tribute to the manifold sacrifices made in the name of freedom. Reminding attendees to value these sacrifices, School Chaplain, Father Gregory Havill opened the assembly with a prayer, asking for eternal peace for those who gave their lives in service.

Dr. Bryndol Sones, math teacher and retired Army Colonel, spoke about service as a core value of the Portsmouth Abbey community. He highlighted the example of Andrew Damasio ’21, currently serving in the military, and encouraged students to engage veterans by asking about their experiences. Dr. Sones also recognized several veterans in attendance and those whose children and siblings may be serving.

The annual Veterans Day program brought history to life through a series of readings within a theater-in-the-round. Fifth-Form students shared letters from soldiers across eras, from the Civil War to Vietnam. These letters offered glimpses into the struggles, resilience, and humanity of those who have served. Highlights included Charlotte Bonny and Whitaker Williams’ emotional readings of World War II correspondence related to the Bataan Death March, as well as Brody Cimaglia’s powerful recounting of a Vietnam soldier’s harrowing combat experience. Billy Jin, Hayden Bordelon, Evie Meko, and Tessa Reid also contributed readings that made attendees pause, reflecting on the individual experiences of others. Additionally, Mary Fran Vesey, director of library services shared a personal story of family member and read his last letter home.

As is tradition, the program concluded with a solemn reading of the names of Portsmouth alumni who have fallen in service, followed by the playing of "Taps.”

The program was a moving reminder of the enduring importance of gratitude and the need for increased devotion to veterans and their families in a community committed to service. Look for more on " Letters Home” in the winter issue of “The Bulletin" in March.