Across the Westwood Regional School District, students and staff paused Tuesday to honor the nation’s veterans. Superintendent Dr. Patrick J. McQueeney said the day “reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy are safeguarded by the courage, commitment, and quiet strength of those who have worn the uniform.”
In a message to parents, staff, and community members, McQueeney shared that Veterans Day holds personal meaning for him. His father is a retired commander in the U.S. Coast Guard, his mother served in the Coast Guard Reserve, and his sister served in the Coast Guard before becoming a nurse. He said their examples of duty and humility shaped his understanding of leadership and the responsibility to support others and the country.
McQueeney noted that many families, staff members, and alumni of the district have served or are currently serving in the armed forces. “We are grateful for your service and the values you model for our students, including integrity, teamwork, resilience, and respect,” he wrote.
He said schools throughout the district encouraged moments of reflection, age-appropriate learning about the meaning of Veterans Day, and simple expressions of gratitude.
“To our veterans in the Westwood community, thank you,” McQueeney wrote. “Your service strengthens our schools and inspires our students.”
He invited any veterans interested in sharing their experiences with students in the future to reach out to their school principal “so we can explore appropriate opportunities.”
The superintendent closed his message by extending “heartfelt appreciation to all who have served and to the families who stand beside them.”