Retired Colonel Gregory D. Gadson, guest speaker, received a hero’s welcome at Locust Valley Middle School when he addressed the student body with inspiring words during a Veterans Recognition Program. The LVMS Student Government, under the direction of the advisers Penny McElwain and Kathleen Reilly, hosted the program.
This event was organized to educate the middle school students about patriotism, Veterans Day and the sacrifices that our veterans and soldiers make for us, reminding the students that these men and women have risked their lives for our freedom and our nation. Reilly contacted Kaye Weninger, president of Operation Democracy (OD), in hopes that this organization could help with this event and OD committed to finding a guest speaker.
Gadson is a wounded warrior, retired from the U.S. Army after serving more than 25 years. While serving as a commander in Iraq (2007), Gadson’s truck was struck by an IED (improvised explosive device), which caused him to lose both of his legs and normal use of his right hand and arm. Despite this life-altering event, he remained on active duty in the Army and inspired those around him with messages of courage, perseverance and determination. These are the same messages he shared with the middle school students.
“You have opportunities,” Gadson said. “You need to take advantage of those opportunities.”
He spoke about patriotism, his commitment to the military and his personal struggles. He reminded the students the importance of being a team (whether it being family, friends, school or sports) and to live life, as tomorrow is not promised. He spoke from his heart and his words were very inspirational and moving.
A video was shown which depicted his role as a mentor to the N.Y. Giants, who consider him an important part of the team, as he inspires them to stay strong and work hard. Gadson’s love for football showed, as he was a linebacker at West Point, where he began his military career. He originally intended to serve the required five years to pay back his education; however, when the five years were up, he couldn’t see himself anywhere else.
“I loved serving my country,” he said.
Gadson is the recipient of two Distinguished Service Medals, two Legions of Merit, three Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, three Meritorious Service Medal and three Army Commendation Medals. He became the first wounded warrior to become the director of the Wounded Warrior Project (2010-2012) and then Garrison Commander of Ft. Belvoir, VA (2012-2014). He also has credits for acting in the movie Battleship as a wounded warrior.
Weninger met Gadson at a National American Legion convention in 2011 and was so inspired by his story and attitude that they became friends. Gadson was pleased to help Operation Democracy and committed to Weninger when she asked if he would come speak to the students at the school.
Weninger commented, “It is a privilege to have Col. Gadson speak to the students. He’s a wonderful person, great friend and so inspirational and positive. Educating our students about the sacrifices these men made, the freedoms we have is so important. These local veterans are heroes to me and sharing this day with them—is truly an honor for me. “
As part of this Veterans Recognition Program, 14 members of the Locust Valley and Bayville American Legions joined Gadson. TOB Councilwoman Michele Johnson recognized the veterans and presented Gadson with a certificate of appreciation. He also received special gifts from the LVMS representing Locust Valley and Long Island. The seventh- and eighth-grade chorus, directed by Mr. Margiotta, performed a patriotic tribute to the veterans, and high school senior Patrick Wilhelm sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Special recognition was given to Arnold Ceglia, a WWII Veteran. Ceglia is 95 years old and one of the oldest veterans in the area. Ceglia was a special guest for the students because he worked at the Locust Valley schools for 20 years. The students honored Ceglia with a standing ovation.
The LVMS student government kicked off plans for fundraising to help “iPads for Soldiers.” This charity gives iPads to wounded warriors at Walter Reed Medical Center. The students will be having Wounded Warrior Wednesday and other events throughout the year with hopes of raising funds to purchase iPads.
