Middle School students participate in Valentines for Vets program

Warwick - As they have done each year for the past several years, students from Warwick Valley Middle School have been busily creating valentines and other goodies for the veterans at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Castle Point. “Valentines for Vets” is a program hosted by the VFW Post 4662 in Warwick whereby middle school students have the opportunity to express their gratitude to area veterans. Every student in the school participates, creating paper valentine cards with words from the heart for hospitalized veterans. This year, however, is different from the rest as students take it a step further. The middle school Home and Careers students have been busy baking cookies and sewing pillows for the veterans as well. Also, for the first time since the Valentines for Vets program began, Warwick middle school students will be delivering their valentines in person. On Friday, Feb. 9, a small contingent of teachers, students and members of VFW Post 4662 will make the trip to the VA Medical Center in Castle Point where they will hand deliver their notes and gifts - sure to bring a smile to some well-deserving military veterans. This program is close to the hearts of the Warwick Valley Middle School Administrators. Principal John Kolesar’s uncle, Dennis Krulder, is the New York State Commander of the Department of Disabled American Vets. Assistant Principal Ernest Jackson also is known as Lt. Col. Jackson (retired), U.S. Army, and Assistant Principal Robert Albanese is a Lt. Col., U.S. Army Reserve, who could be called to service at any time. Special presentation To honor the local vets who have hosted the Valentines for Vets program and who also present colors before all JV wrestling matches in Warwick, middle school administrators will be presenting a plaque to VFW Post 4662 at 9 a.m. on Sat., Feb. 10, at Warwick Valley High School. The presentation will take place in front of an audience of athletes, fans and families from the OCIAA, Section 9 JV Wrestling Tournament. The award presentation will follow the presentation of colors and the national anthem at the wrestling event.