Flags Fly High at Stamford School

The gymnasium of Julia A. Stark Elementary School was decked out in red, white, and blue Tuesday as the school continued its tradition of celebrating Flag Day. Each student filed into the gymnasium with a small American Flag in hand as the second grade students sang several patriotic songs, including “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “This is America.”

The other students joined in the singing and waving their flags with the music. The school's drumming ensemble helped perform “Wavin Flag,” by K’naan.

On a day in which the country honors its past, Stark honored its past, present and future principals. Principal William Johnson was in attendance, and he was joined by Mark Bonasera, who will take over at the school next year, and by Dr. Mary Savage, who stepped down two years ago.

Savage was credited with starting the Flag Day celebrations while she was at Stark. She was glad to see that it has continued, and she hopes that Bonasera will keep it going. “I hope there are many, many more Flag Days at Stark School,” Savage said.

Several veterans representing every military conflict from World War II to Desert Storm also participated. Pasquale “Pat” Battinelli, an alumnus of Stark School, told the students of the importance of Flag Day to him and other veterans who lost friends defending the country.

“This is the greatest piece of cloth in the world,” Battinelli said.

What does Flag Day mean to you? How did you celebrate the day? Share your thoughts and experiences below or send them to reporter Anthony Buzzeo at tbuzzeo@TheDailyStamford.com. 

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