05/29/2024
Last week, I had the incredible honor of photographing the Run for the Wall ceremonies at Montvale Elementary School. For those of you who know, I was a teacher's aide here for close to three years while I went back to school, so this event has become very near and dear to my heart.
I knew instantly that when I wasn't going to be there towards the end of the year following my graduation, I wanted to still take part. My mentor teacher, who was also a co-chair for the committee for this event, approached me and asked if I would photograph so they were able to show potential donors what goes into the event for next year. It wasn't even a decision I needed to make- it was an instant yes from me!
During this event, the school hosts hundreds of veterans who are riding their motorcycles cross-county in order to meet at the memorials in Washington, D.C. During this day, veterans are fed through the donations sought out by the school, as well as through monetary donations provided by the students' parents and other members in the community. Veterans visit classrooms, tell stories to students and teachers, and even sometimes hand out small gifts such as bracelets, coins, and pins. After visitation time is concluded, all of the veterans are invited into the gym, where the entire student body sing songs and celebrate the veterans, as well as honor those who have lost their lives. The school then sends off the veterans the same way they welcomed them, by lining up outside and cheering for them as they continue their journey to Washington, D.C. It is such a special day to be a part of every year, and I am so blessed to have been able to take part for the last three years.