The Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery BOCES Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center recently held a small ceremony to recognize graduating seniors who will enter the United States Armed Forces after finishing high school later this month.
The ceremony, led by HFM CTE Principal Michael DiMezza, focused on acknowledging the students’ decision to pursue military service.
“It’s a big choice to join the military,” DiMezza told the group. “With everything going on in the world, the work you’re stepping into matters. You’re helping protect our country, and we wanted to take a few minutes to recognize that and say thank you.”
Students recognized at the ceremony included Oliver VanNostrand (Wells, U.S. Marine Corps), Owen Hobbie (Johnstown, U.S. Marine Corps), Jace Sikorski (Northville, U.S. Marine Corps), Kolton Hesch (Fonda-Fultonville, National Guard), Tucker Borst (Fonda-Fultonville, U.S. Marine Corps), Patrick Jarratt (Broadalbin-Perth, U.S. Marine Corps), Colton Lizzio (Broadalbin-Perth, National Guard), Kalei Crosier (Fonda-Fultonville, U.S. Marine Corps), and Ian McClary (Amsterdam, National Guard).
The recognition is part of HFM CTE’s effort to celebrate all students’ plans after graduation, whether they are heading to college, going into the workforce, or entering the military. DiMezza said each path is important.
“Everyone has a role,” he said. “The work you’re about to do is important, just like any other path. It all matters.”
Several students also spoke about why they chose to enlist.
Colton Lizzio of Broadalbin-Perth said joining the National Guard felt like the right fit for him.
“I was trying to figure out my options,” he said. “I wanted to go to college and find a way to stay out of debt. I was already thinking about the military, so it ultimately felt like the right choice.”
Ian McClary of Amsterdam said serving has been on his mind for a long time.
“I always knew I wanted to join,” he said. “I looked at a few different ways to serve, and this felt like the best fit for me.”
Oliver VanNostrand of Wells said the challenge of the Marine Corps appealed to him.
“I joined for the benefits and the education, but I also like pushing myself,” he said. “That’s why I chose the Marines.”
When asked what serving their country means to them, students touched on family and personal ties.
Lizzio said his decision continues a family tradition.
“My uncle, my dad, and my grandfather all served,” he said. “It feels good to carry that on.”
McClary said service can take many forms.
“Being in the military is one way to serve,” he said. “But people serve in different ways every day. I’m just glad I get to do it this way.”
DiMezza also spoke about the importance of military service from a personal and historical perspective. As a former social studies teacher, he said he has seen how the military has shaped world events and the sacrifices that have come with it.
“The military plays a big part in how the world works,” he said. “A lot of people have given a lot. We want you to know we appreciate what you’re choosing to do.”
HFM staff also thanked the students for their commitment and the work they have put in during their time at CTE.
“The sacrifices you’re making, including time away from family, are not small,” said HFM CTE Administrative Coordinator Michael Ott. “We’re proud of you and glad you were part of this program.”
The ceremony ended with a message of support from CTE staff members who wished the students well and let them know they will be thinking of them as they begin the next chapter.
“This is something to be proud of,” DiMezza said. “We appreciate it, and we won’t forget it.”
