The Veterans Day Assembly at Rambam was a tremendous success, leaving a lasting and meaningful impression on the entire school community. The event began with the Rambam band setting a respectful and patriotic tone by playing the national anthem. Thank you to Benny Feder and Mark Khaimov for creating this meaningful atmosphere.
Gershon Brill –a Rambam senior- then introduced the guest speaker to the audience declaring: “Today is Veterans Day in which we acknowledge with gratitude those who served our country and fought to preserve our freedoms and our democracy. Veterans represent self sacrifice, courage, loyalty and principle. It's my privilege to introduce a veteran of the Korean Qar who has the best virtues of an American veteran.
Please give your attention to my good friend John Shaud.” Sergeant John Shaud is a 91year-old veteran and the President of the West Hempstead Historical Society. Sergeant Shaud comes from a distinguished family of veterans, including his great-uncle Major General Daniel E. Sickles. Sergeant John Shaud shared stories from his time in the Air Force during the Korean War.
He also recounted the moving tale of the four chaplains and spoke fondly of his friend in the IDF. Despite not being Jewish, Sergeant Shaud thoughtfully prepared his speech geared for a Jewish audience. Gershon Brill, who invited Sergeant Shaud to speak, expressed his gratitude, saying, "It's really amazing what Rambam can do. When I met John and started building model aircraft with him, I never imagined he would become part of the Rambam family.
Now he has more plaques better than me! " Sergeant Shaud was deeply touched by the warm reception he received. "I enjoyed having the privilege of speaking at your school," he said. Touched by your classmates, principal, and teachers. I'm honored by the plaque given to me and that you asked me to share my military experiences. Your classmates all shook my hand, and I felt so privileged.
You made Veterans Day very special for me. " The assembly was an amazing success, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved and serving as a remarkable Kiddush Hashem.