Thirty-seven Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School students recently helped prepare All Souls Cemetery for Memorial Day. Working alongside veterans and relatives of veterans, the students placed flags and stickers at the graves of those who had served in the armed forces. Although students did not receive class credit for their volunteerism, teacher Gary Minadeo asked participants to reflect on the experience. Below are some of their responses.

"What does it mean to serve?"

By VASJ students Kierra Cotton and Christa White

A group of thirty-seven students from Villa Angela - St Joseph High School embodied that by assisting the Lake County American Legion members with the decoration of veterans’ graves at All Souls Cemetery with U.S flags on Thursday May 26, 2011.Mr. Gary Minadeo, retired Army veteran, 1974 St. Joseph graduate, and current mathematics teacher, rallied together these students with his powerful and inspirational ways. These children made a lasting impression on many of the volunteers, fellow veterans, and anyone else who was there to witness their great deed in honoring those who proudly served our country.

“As the grandson of two veterans buried at the very same cemetery, it was an honor and a privilege to show my support for those heroes,” said VASJ junior Patrick Mastalski. “As an American, I feel it is a fantastic show of appreciation to all those who have served and I hope I can do it again.”

Not only did the VASJ students leave a lasting impression, but were a living portrayal of how VASJ values serving others. “Through the inspirational influence of Mr. Minadeo, I was given the chance to show why Villa Angela-St. Joseph is so respected and I’m happy to be a Viking now and forever,” said VASJ junior Malik Sullins. “I pray that the families we touched today are at peace, it was a proud day to honor these veterans.”

This is only one example of what is yet to come from the Viking Village. Hail Red and Blue!

Other quotes from students, provided by VASJ staff:

“Our lives are not defined by how talented or good we are at something, but how many lives we touched during our short time here on Earth. Today, I feel accomplished because I had a chance to touch someone’s life.” – Tim Harrison

“Today will be a day I remember for the rest of my life. This experience was not about me, it was about helping others. I served those who served to protect the country I live in.” – Christa White

- Posted by Rachel Jackson | RJackson@News-Herald.com