Derby school honors local veterans

St. Mary-St. Michael School in Derby held its annual Veterans Day observance Friday, which recognized relatives of students who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces.
Veterans Day is Sunday.
Principal Linda Coppola was also honored during the program. The veterans surprised her by presenting her with the American Legion's Community Americanism Award.

World War II Navy veteran Daniel Waleski of Derby plays taps at the end of Friday's program honoring veterans at St. Mary-St. Michael School in Derby. Patricia Villers / Register

Erwin "Gus" Williams, Commander, John H. Collins Post 24 American Legion of Derby, left, and Harry Hanson of Wolcott, an active-duty member of the Connecticut Air National Guard, present a Community Americanism Award to St. Mary-St. Michael School Principal Linda Coppola Friday at the Derby school. Patricia Villers/Register

Korean War-era Marine Corps veteran Bernard Williamson of Derby speaks to students Friday about Veterans Day. Patricia Villers/Register