In honor of Veterans Day, let’s pause to honor and recognize family and friends who have served our country.
Veterans Day dates back to the early 20th century. Near the end of WWI, an armistice was signed in July of 1918 to temporarily stop fighting on November 11th at eleven o’clock. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, it was “generally regarded as the end of ‘the war to end all wars.’” The following year, President Wilson declared November 11th as Armistice Day. However, it wasn’t put into law officially until 1938. After WWII, the name Armistice Day was changed to Veterans Day as a way to honor veterans of all wars.
Here at Ukiah High, there are programs and events that invite students to explore the opportunities of a military career, and some Wildcats will enlist in one of the branches after graduation.
UHS News reached out to Ukiah High alum Emily Boz (Class of 2018) regarding her experience in the Marine Corps. For students looking into a military pathway, she advised, “Know exactly what you want to do and what you want to get out of the experience. The military can be a great tool for free education, college, and hands-on experience if you know how to leverage it.”
When asked what advice she would give to her younger self, Boz said, “Be tough! Being a woman in the military is not for the faint of heart. It won’t always be fair, but remember your ‘why,’ and it’s all worth it in the end.” She shared that she enjoys spending her Veterans Day with her husband, also a veteran, with a free lunch from In-N-Out!
Denis Mealey, grandparent to a current Wildcat, is a U.S. Navy veteran who spoke with UHS News about his experience in the Navy. Mealey served in the Vietnam War and as Command Master Chief of COMNAV SERVEPAC and the USS Robert E. Perry. When he was just 17 years old, Mealey joined the Navy in hopes of finding a sense of security in his life. Currently, he views his career in the Navy as “one big adventure” and encourages young people to volunteer for the military if they can. Today he enjoys spending his Veterans Day “thinking of all the places the Navy sent me, the opportunities, and remembering old shipmates.”
Currently, several Wildcats are considering pursuing a military career. Sophomore Devan Perea shared that he has family in the military, which has sparked his interest in joining. SeniorZachary Stewart shared that he is specifically interested in the Marine and Army branches because “I love my nation and have dreamed of protecting it since I was young.” Both students emphasized the educational opportunities that are available to military veterans as another incentive to join.
Superintendent Deb Kubin commented on the importance of recognizing Veterans Day: “We have a lot of people who have served our country, and it’s important to honor them.” She continued, “My dad was actually a Navy veteran and was in Vietnam on a naval destroyer. It’s important to recognize [my dad] and all the people who came before and after him, who served our country to make sure that we can have the freedoms we have today.”
So as you enjoy the day off, remember those who made sacrifices for our country and, if you see a man or woman wearing a veteran’s hat, consider Mrs. Boz’s advice: “Thank them for what they’ve done. A simple thank you goes a long way.”
Josette Mealey
Josette Mealey is currently a senior attending Ukiah High School. In her free time, she enjoys writing poetry, playing video games, and reading about the world around her. Originally from Decatur, Illinois, Josette has loved the unique feel of Ukiah since she was six years old. In recent years, she has become interested in local politics and is an active member of her school and community. She is currently the president of the French Club, vice president of the Women’s Empowerment Club, and plays #4 singles for the Girls Tennis Team. This is her second year writing for UHS News.
What a wonderful tribute to veterans thank you so much for highlighting our daughter Emily Davis Bozelli. We are also very proud of her. I’m also very proud of you for the interest you’ve taken on this special day. Thank you.
Thank you Miss Mealey,
For taking the time and interest in our nations celebration and remembrance of Veterans Day. Our daughter Emily is a highlight in our life, her dedication and commitment to serving our country, makes us extremely proud. We are so thankful to all of our Veterans and those men and women still serving!
With much appreciation,
Lisa Kvasnicka