On a warm, sunny morning, the Gilman community of students, faculty, and staff gathered at Sotir Stadium for the annual Memorial Day Convocation to honor and remember those who have dedicated and given their lives in service to our country.

Director of School Counseling Services John Mojzisek, aka Dr. Mo, gave the invocation, followed by the presentation of the flag led by Dylan B. ’32 and Omar F. ’32. Second graders Asadi D., Peter S., and Gilbert M. led the community in the Pledge of Allegiance. As always, the Traveling Men performed the national anthem with their customary poise and power.

In his remarks, Head of School Henry Smyth framed the meaning of the day: “It’s a time to value life and honor service.” He spoke about our nation’s ideals — life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — and how we can honor fallen heroes by living out those values. He also reminded the community that Gilman’s tradition is not only to remember those who died in service to the United States, but also members of the Gilman community who passed away this year. “We can use this time to reflect on the positive things that they brought to Gilman,” he said. “They helped make us who we are today, they walked through these halls, they sat in our classrooms, they played on these fields.”

Two faculty members retiring this year — Director of College Counseling Sarah Ross and Gilman icon and Upper School History Teacher Timothy Holley, Jr. ’77 — read the names of the Gilman alumni and community members lost this year.

The Traveling Men returned to the field to perform “O God Our Help in Ages Past,” followed by the benediction from Assistant Head of School for Community, Inclusion, and Equity Mike Molina. To conclude the convocation, Richard Nesti ’26 and George Sifakis ’28 performed “Taps” in the “Echo Taps” style, bringing the solemn ceremony to a close.

Watch the convocation

Watch memorial slideshow