Elwood-John H. Glenn High School welcomed back the U.S. Marine Corps on May 23 for the school’s third annual Memorial Day celebration, coinciding with Fleet Week, with veterans and active military personnel within the Elwood community in attendance.

The day kicked off with the unveiling of the school’s Wall of Heroes, a permanent tribute to Elwood community members who have served in the armed forces. The event then shifted to the football field, where students from the high school, Elwood Middle School and James H. Boyd Intermediate School heard patriotic speeches, enjoyed performances from high school music ensembles and the Marine Corps Marching Band, and witnessed two exciting USMC helicopter landings. 
 
“It is with tremendous gratitude to our soldiers and their families for their service and sacrifice that we dedicate today's ceremony,” Principal Cory McNamara said. “We not only remember you this Memorial Day weekend, but every day.”

“These fallen heroes were and remain our role models,” Superintendent Dr. Gayle Steel said. “They embody the very best of the human spirit – courage, selflessness and an unwavering commitment to something larger than themselves. They teach us the true meaning of patriotism. They show us that freedom is not free, but a precious inheritance bought with the highest price. So let us continue to honor their sacrifice by living lives worthy of their devotion, by cherishing our freedoms, by engaging in our communities and by remembering the cost of true peace. Let their courage inspire us, their dedication motivate us, and may we always honor their service by ensuring their sacrifice will was not in vain.”

“This Memorial Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women of our armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom,” Board of Education President James Tomeo said. “Their courage, their service and their selflessness are the foundation upon which our country stands. It is especially meaningful for us here at John H. Glenn High School, a school proudly named after a true American hero. Sen. John H. Glenn was not only a dedicated public servant, but also a distinguished Marine Corps pilot and the first American to orbit Earth. His life was defined by leadership, service and a relentless commitment to country, values that we strive to uphold within our community.”

Date Added: 5/30/2025