On Dec. 16, a group of advanced history students from Los Banos High School participated in Wreaths Across America at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella.
Wreaths Across America is a nationwide initiative to remember and honor veterans by laying wreaths on their graves.
Rochelle Ciuffo, the school’s administrative assistant, made the opportunity possible by coordinating the students’ attendance at the event alongside Jason Walsh, a seventh and eighth-grade history teacher.
It was Los Banos Junior High School’s first time participating in Wreaths Across America.
Deolinda Brasil, the school’s principal, noted the importance of exposing students to this local yet nationally significant event, saying, “The majority of the students who attended had no idea that the cemetery was even out there.”
Principal Brasil said the students’ reflections during the bus ride back were heartwarming. Despite the rainy and stormy weather, the students maintained a respectful demeanor, appreciating the event.
One particular moment was when a rainbow appeared over the section where the students had laid wreaths. Principal Brasil said it was a beautiful moment that added to the experience.
She also noted the respect the students displayed. They only used their cell phones to capture the scene’s beauty.
The success of this year’s participation has inspired the school to make it an annual tradition. Principal Brasil confirmed that plans are already in place for next year, with ideas to expand the school’s involvement.
Principal Brasil praised Ciuffo and Walsh for making the event possible, saying, “We need more people to be aware and to be involved.”
