Boardman students learn value of sacrifices made by vets they know

BOARDMAN

Domenica Quick, a first-grader at West Boulevard Elementary, thinks her great-grandfather is special for a lot of reasons.

But on Tuesday, she honored Anthony Marinelli, 93, of Boardman, for one reason in particular: his service in the Coast Guard during World War II.

“It makes you feel more appreciative. You don’t take things for granted,” said Marinelli’s granddaughter Tiffany Hefferon, 25, of Boardman, about having a veteran in their family.

Marinelli was one of about 100 veterans who were honored at West Boulevard, in addition to about 150 veterans who were honored at Stadium Drive Elementary and about 20 at Center Middle School.

West Boulevard students invited veterans to a luncheon, followed by a program in which third-grade students sang patriotic songs.

Stadium Drive Elementary hosted a breakfast and a program.

“We just wanted to do it, first just as a way to honor our family and friends who are veterans, and show we appreciate everything they’ve done,” said Stadium Drive Principal Jim Goske. “And also to show our kids the importance of the sacrifices veterans have made.”

Read more about the tributes in Wednesday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com