School Commemorates Fallen Heroes

By: Commissioner James C. Baker II

Community Writer

Photo Courtesy of:

James C Baker

Photo Description:

MVUSD Board Member and Teacher's Association President Jesus Holguin, Project Organizer, Senior Class President and Parks & Rec Teen Commissioner Patrick Samones, Parks & Rec Commission Chair James C. Baker II, Principal Robert E. Brough, guest speaker Martinrex Kedziora Ed.D, Moreno Valley Class of 1968, Vietnam Vetetan Ray Burns, MVHS Alumni Terry Sweeney and others at the recent Valhallia Memorial Ceremony in front of three memorial plaques.

On May 30th, at Moreno Valley High School, The Valhalla Memorial was unveiled before a crowd of about 250 parents, teachers, students and guest. Senior Class President Patrick Samones, who also serves as a Teen Commissioner of the Moreno Valley Parks & Recreation Commission, spearheaded the project. Ms. Marianne Cammisso's Artistic Talents created the centerpiece and Mr. John Angelo's generosity funded the labor, materials and installation. Along with great support from Mr. Terry Sweeney, Mr. Ray Burns and Ms. Elsa Magana, the memorial was completed and was placed in the main quad area of the school, allowing all who pass by to see, remember, and never forget those who gave their lives for our freedom. A special congratulations to Patrick Samones, whose great dedication along with that special "Moreno Valley Spirit", saw this project to its fruition. There were very touching memorial words from Ms. Mary Carriere, mother of fallen soldier, Jason Tetrault. After all acknowledgements were made, a Ribbon Cutting was done and the plaques were unveiled. Patrick was joined by Jesus Holguin, Representative of the School Board Association and Commissioner James C. Baker II, Chairman of the Moreno Valley Parks & Recreation Commission. "This young man is going a long way," Baker said. "He's served our Commission well and he's made a difference at the school. We need more students like Patrick. Hats off to the ROTC, and all that had a part of this special memorial presentation."