On Friday, May 22, Franklin County Technical School commemorated Memorial Day with an address by Joseph Mazeski, the head of Custodial and Maintenance Department.
Mr. Mazeski, who served in the U.S. Air Force, was recognized for his service along with other Franklin County Tech staff members – Elizabeth Johnson (U.S. Army), John Hicks (U.S. Air Force), Leon Laster (U.S. Marine Corps.), Tracey Schryba (U.S. Navy) and Michael McIntyre (U.S. Marine Corps.).
In his remarks, Mr. Mazeski said, “I was very fortunate to have served our country during peacetime. I spent six years in the U.S. Air Force, during which time I was responsible for maintaining a weapon system that was designed to prevent nuclear war.
Both my parents served our country during World War II. My father was stationed in Europe and my mother served as a cook at an Army training facility in Georgia. My brother was drafted and served in the Army during the Vietnam conflict. My family members were able to make it home safely where many others were not so fortunate,
And so, it is my duty and honor as a veteran to stand here today and remember the souls who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
This weekend when you’re at family gatherings or out with friends, please take a moment, close your eyes and say ‘thank you.’ Count the blessings we have because of the sacrifice of the many men and women who have given their lives to protect and defend our way of life.”
Principal Brian Spadafino was the master of ceremonies for the event. A number of students also participated. Olivia Kaleta read the poem “In Flanders Field;” Vincent Craig read the Governor’s Proclamation; Aidan Pasic talked about the history of Memorial Day; Cloe Kendrick Redner recited “Our Memories;” and Mikey Peckham read “The City’s Oldest Known Survivor of the Great War.”