Washington School Patriotism Presentations

Over 300 students from the 3rd to the 8th grade met class by class throughout the day in the Washington School Library in Carlstadt, NJ on December 6, 2006 to hear presentations on patriotism. The presentations were organized through the collaborative leadership of Superintendent Frank J. Legato, Principal Steve Kollinok, Chief Thomas Nielsen and Sgt. Walter M. Beese of the Carlstadt Police Department.

The presentations were critically important since United States Marine Michael Schwarz, a graduate of Washington School, would have his wake and funeral in town over the next few days. Marine Michael Schwarz, 20, was killed by a sniper in Iraq and his death has set an emotionally somber mood at Washington School and throughout Carlstadt. The students took time to honor Marine Schwarz during the presentations and discussed the importance of appreciating those who have served America and those currently in harms way.

As the speaker for the student groups, I stressed the importance of dedication to study and used a PowerPoint to highlight patriotism by reviewing books on George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, Lou Gehrig, The Gettysburg Address, Iwo Jima's Flag Raising, The Civil War, World War II, Winston Churchill, The Vietnam War and the D-Day Invasion.

Each presentation also focused on characteristics of patriotism which included reverence for the American Flag and the importance of developing civic qualities of honesty, teamwork, dedication, gratefulness, character, hard work, perseverance, courage and community service.

As a tribute to Marine Michael Schwarz, the presentations ended with a photo tribute honoring the service of all who are in harms way making great sacrifices to serve America.

Click here to read The Leader article by Alexis Tarrazi