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LHS Silent Service 2024

silent service  and helicopter landing

Each year, Livingston High School hosts a Silent Memorial Service for Livingston citizens who gave their lives in defense of their country. LHS works closely with Veterans of Foreign Wars Commanders, the American Legion, Jewish War Veterans, and the VFW Auxiliary to present this event annually. Members of these organizations were present on Friday, May 24, in the LHS auditorium, where they participated in a solemn ceremony to honor Livingston residents who made the ultimate sacrifice.

This is the 25th year of the Silent Service, which was started by John Michaels and Deymour Schram, veterans of the Korean War. 

The ceremony included the reading of names of Livingston residents who died in service to the country. Each name was represented on the stage of the LHS auditorium by a candle and name placard. As their names were read, a bell was rung and an officer from the Senior Class of 2024 would snuff out the candle and place the name placard face down. 

During the ceremony, LHS principal Danielle Rosenzweig recognized members of the LHS staff who are also veterans including:

  • Mrs. Marie Battist-Rock- United States Army
  • Mr. Stuart Lukowiak- United States Marine Corps
  • Mr. Amro Mohammed-United States Marine Corps
  • Mr. Michael Munley – United States Marine Corps
  • Mr. Michael Pizzone – United States Army

“We wish to honor your experiences and commitment both in the military and in serving the students and staff of LHS. We take this moment to recognize how you model and embody the pillars of your respective military branches. Thank you for your service and for all that you do each day for our students, staff and LHS as a whole,” Rosenzweig stated.

School counselor Michael Buonomo recognized LHS seniors who have chosen to enter into the United States Military after graduation including: Liam Dufford - (enlisting in the Coast Guard), Andrei Hipol (Virginia Military Institute, ROTC), and Kaushik Mukkavilli (enlisting into the United States Marine Corps Reserves). 

“It is with great pride that we distinguish your brave commitment to serve and protect our country. On behalf of Livingston High School and the community at large, we thank you in advance for your service. We are incredibly proud of each of you,” said Mr. Buonomo. 

Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to go outside for a surprise military helicopter landing on the Oval. Commander Tony Ciccone, the incoming VFW Post Commander, coordinated for the Army to bring the Blackhawk to LHS! The Class of 2024 had an opportunity to see the aircraft up close and take photos.