Published November 18. 2025 01:18PM
Students and faculty welcomed veterans and family to their annual Veterans Day ceremony, a more than 10-year tradition, according to faculty organizer Nikki Giannaras, a fourth-grade teacher at the school.
In the school’s auditorium, which was decorated in red, white and blue balloons and student made patriotic crafts, the Hanover ES community presented music, messages and salutes to veterans in attendance.
One appreciative veteran, U.S. Navy veteran Al Stuart, spent 30 years in the submarine service and drove from Lancaster in full uniform to surprise his granddaughters, Emi and Anna.
Principal Fontanez reminded everyone that “freedom is not free, which is why we honor the incredible men and women who have served our country.”
Liberty HS Grenadier Band musicians performed both ‘Amazing Grace’ and the ‘Armed Services Medley’, which had veterans of American military branches standing when their branch of service song was played.
Hanover students Andre G. and Eva S. played ‘Taps’ and ‘My Country ‘Tis of thee’ and the former was joined on trumpet by 4th and fifth grade music instruction teacher Clayton Reilly on ‘America the Beautiful’.
Students from various grades presented opening speeches and poetry and sang patriotic themed songs.
State Rep. Steve Samuelson addressed the assembly about the importance of recognizing those who have served in America’s military services. The NAACP honors veterans. Page A4
U.S. Navy veteran Al Stewart arrives from his home in Lancaster to surprise granddaughters Emi and Anna, students at the school.
“It’s a day of pride and appreciation,” says PA State Rep. Steve Samuelson.
Hanover student Andre G. plays Taps during the program
Hanover student Evy S. performs ‘My Country ‘Tis of Thee’ on flute.
press photos by dana grubbHanover students place their hands over hearts during ‘America’. More photos on A2.
Hanover ES students use placards to applaud veterans in attendance.
U.S. Air Force veteran Richard Grebs of Bethlehem stands during the playing of the service songs by the Liberty HS Brass ensemble.
Veterans salute during instrumental teacher Clayton Reilly’s playing of the National Anthem.
Liberty HS Grenadier pipers perform “Amazing Grace” with the Liberty HS Brass Ensemble behind them.
Hanover ES students perform a Veterans Day poem.
