Maine Memorial Elementary School Celebrates Flag Day
Patriotic spirit shined throughout the Maine Memorial Elementary School as students celebrated Flag Day. The school observed the day by honoring local law enforcement.
On Tuesday, authorities who are related to Maine Memorial students participated in the school's annual Flag Day ceremony. Officers from agencies including New York State Police, the Broome County Sheriff's Office, and the Johnson City Police Department were present.
At the event, Johnson City Patrolman Lou Cioci raised the American flag to half-staff, in honor of Sunday's Orlando shooting victims. Cioci recently received the Congressional Medal of Valor from President Barack Obama.
Students showed their gratitude for those who've served the country by performing patriotic songs, reading essays, and reciting the history of the National Anthem.
"Honoring our veterans, and everyone that's served for our country, and for our police officers, and our armed forces; it's amazing that we have all of these people to support our country and stand by our flags," said 5th grade student Kiley Singer.
Organizers say instilling that sense of honor was one of the main goals of Tuesday's event.
"It really is teaching them respect for our flag, and mainly for our country," said Jim Tokos, a Maine Memorial teacher and organizer of the ceremony.
The ceremony concluded with officers and retiring staff members ringing the school's bell to symbolize that they are a part of the Maine Memorial family.