Wayne, NJ – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – On December 7th, Passaic County Technical Institute held a very special assembly in honor of the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Hundreds of veterans were in attendance and special guests included the Paterson Fire Department Honor Guard, members of the Emerald Society, Joe Galafaro (recipient of the Croix de Guerre), American Legion Department Commander Roger Gengaro, and more.
This year’s presentation saw a very important member missing. In May, World War II survivor Captain John Walton passed away at 101 years of age. The veteran was a staple of the PCTI community, having attended numerous Pearl Harbor remembrance events. Students, faculty, and staff made the veteran feel at home by routinely celebrating his birthday with cake and song.
A special video tribute honored his memory. Close friends, Tony Vancheri (Leader, Paterson Veterans Council) and John Harris (Passaic County Service Officer), spoke on his behalf, saying they were deeply saddened to have lost a mentor and a good friend. In honor of his dedication to the school community, students presented Jim Millikin (nephew of John Walton) with a plaque that showcased their gratitude.
The Pearl Harbor assembly reminded all in attendance about the strong impact history has on today’s society. PCTI’s annual patriotic events continually foster a connection between veterans and the school community, and pays tribute to those who dedicated their lives to serving our nation.
This year’s presentation saw a very important member missing. In May, World War II survivor Captain John Walton passed away at 101 years of age. The veteran was a staple of the PCTI community, having attended numerous Pearl Harbor remembrance events. Students, faculty, and staff made the veteran feel at home by routinely celebrating his birthday with cake and song.
A special video tribute honored his memory. Close friends, Tony Vancheri (Leader, Paterson Veterans Council) and John Harris (Passaic County Service Officer), spoke on his behalf, saying they were deeply saddened to have lost a mentor and a good friend. In honor of his dedication to the school community, students presented Jim Millikin (nephew of John Walton) with a plaque that showcased their gratitude.
The Pearl Harbor assembly reminded all in attendance about the strong impact history has on today’s society. PCTI’s annual patriotic events continually foster a connection between veterans and the school community, and pays tribute to those who dedicated their lives to serving our nation.
PCTI students speak with a veteran at the Pearl Harbor Day assembly.
PCTI’s auditorium was filled to capacity during the event which celebrated the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Jim Millikin, nephew of John Walton, receives a commemorative plaque from Instructor Catherine Pagano (Woodland Park) and an AP History student Zora Carter (Clifton).