CJB honors veterans during flag raising
September 20, 2012 2:08PM
Eighth-graders at Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School in Orland Hills take part in a prayer service and flag-raising ceremony at the school. | Supplied Photo
Updated: October 24, 2012 6:09AM
Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School in Orland Hills recently commemorated its first day of school with a traditional prayer service and flag-raising ceremony.
Principal Mary Iannucilli welcomed the students, parents, faculty and staff back to school with the help of the Orland Hills Police Department and members of Bremen VFW Post 2791, who raised both the U.S. and blue ribbon flags.
The entire student body gathered around the school’s flagpole to pay tribute to their country, as well as those serving in the military.
The Rev. Rich Homa blessed the flags and led the audience in prayer.
He was joined by the Rev. Ed Upton, of St. Francis of Assisi, the Rev. Jay Finno, of St. Stephen Parish, and student council ambassadors Kelly Calcagno, Zach Flowers and Maryclare Leonard, all of Orland Park.
A prayer also was said for World War II veteran Bob Oehman, who died in November.
Oehman had been a “special part” of the CJB flag-raising ceremony since the school opened in 2000, school officials said.
Iannucilli concluded the ceremony by announcing the theme for the school year, “Teamwork is our dream work.”
She encouraged students to work together to accomplish goals, challenge themselves, and open their minds and hearts to new experiences.
Information: www.cardinaljbschool.com.
Staff reports
