As Reverend Nicole Simopolous-Pigato began speaking, people’s conversations quieted. She started the chapel saying, “We hope this gathering today will be a timely reminder that our freedom is precious. It has a cost, and should never be taken for granted.” Gratitude for the veterans in the School’s community, and the experiences of them and their families, were at the heart of the Veteran’s Day chapel.
The Bishop’s community gathered in the Eva May Fleet Athletic Center for this all-school chapel on November 8th. Chatting as they filtered in, most students sat on bleachers while seniors and juniors sat on seats across the gym floor, where military parents were also seated.
Veteran’s Day Chapel is one of the occasional chapels that are a whole-school meeting, meant to honor all those who have served this country — in particular, faculty members and the family members of Bishop’s students.
Following the Reverend, Associate Head of School Mr. Michael Beamer, who served in the Navy himself, introduced all of the veterans present, who stood as their names were called.
After everyone applauded, Mr. AJ Jezierski, Associate Director of College Counseling, DEIJ Coordinator, and faculty advisor to the Military Students Affinity Space, introduced himself. The son of a retired Navy captain, Mr. Jezierski explained that, “I understand how impactful and meaningful military service is not only for the person in uniform, but also for their loved ones.”
At Bishop’s, there are 28 students who are a part of military families. This chapel allowed some of these student leaders to share their experiences with the rest of the school, and for everyone to honor the service of their parents.
These student leaders were Melanie Yau (‘26), Katie Johnson (‘26), Ruben Gutierrez III (‘25), and Jack Harvey (‘25). They each stood at the podium and shared stories not just about their parents’ time serving the country, but also about their experiences as a child of a military family — which includes frequent moves and sacrifices of family time. Their speeches were reflective of the lessons that they have learned, which they shared with the school, and gave people a chance to honor Veteran’s Day.
Katie said in her speech, “Growing up in a military family has taught me the values of honor, courage, and commitment. I have a greater understanding of service, not only from my parents, but from the stories they tell about other service members. We are very patriotic and thankful for those who protect our freedom on a daily basis.”
Ruben noted, “Even though I’ve had to move a handful of times, it’s created bonds with people I never imagined I’d come in contact with. I’ve made more friendships with people who eventually became family to me. I’ve had the blessing of living on every coast of America and experiencing the friendship of the West, East, and Southern most parts of the country, which in turn made me stronger.”
Following the student reflections, Bishop’s Singers performed the U.S. Armed Forces Medley, which is often played on Independence Day, and honors the millions of active service members and veterans in the various branches of the U.S. military. Following their performance, Bodhi Landin (‘28) performed Taps — a series of 24 notes recognized as the National Song of Remembrance — on the trumpet.
“And now for a blessing,” concluded Reverend Simopolous-Pigato. “Go forth into the world in peace. Be of good courage. Hold fast to that which is good. Do justice, love kindness, walk humbly, honor all people, love and serve God and one another, and our country.”
