Phillipsburg School District Honors Veterans in Game Opener vs. Westfield

PHILLIPSBURG, NJ – Tradition, something the Stateliner community prides itself on.

In an annual display of community and patriotism, Phillipsburg High School's football season opener against Westfield was more than just a game—it was the annual tribute to local veterans. The Veteran Appreciation Night saw about three dozen veterans and their families gather for an evening of remembrance, camaraderie, and football, uniting in a celebration of service and country pride.

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Many of the same faces seated together from High School Days were talking about their upcoming reunions, high school memories, catching up on the families and where the best spots for breakfast gathering are.

The gathering began on the lawn of the former high school, now Phillipsburg Middle School, where veterans were welcomed for light desserts and refreshments. Students from the Future Farmers of America (FFA), along with their advisors, served and cleaned up, taking the opportunity to collect contact information from veterans for future community events. Although they were hosting, most of what they found was they as well, listened to the stories that the veterans were sharing, most over 80 years old.

As with tradition, veterans were offered free admission to the game, although most attendees were already proud season ticket holders who had their favorite seats ready and waited for the five minute mark to walk onto the field with their fellow veterans for recognition by branch. Many wore shirts, hats, and jackets emblazoned with military insignia or red “Remember Everyone Deployed” shirts, symbolizing their enduring connection to the armed forces.

Many said this event, is one they look forward to more than any other because of the attendance and diverse group. But they concurred, the theme is about the country and local men and women who served, nothing more. They said, “This is the one time thousands of people look to us and know we, as veterans have represented their freedom”.

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The Phillipsburg student section also embraced the USA theme for the evening and joined everyone as they rose to recognize the veterans on the field.

Each branch of the U.S. military—Coast Guard, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and the largest group, the U.S. Army—was introduced one by one. Veterans walked proudly on the track, with the flag of their branch held high as their branch’s anthem played. The stands erupted in applause, and American flags waved across the stadium, turning the atmosphere into one of respect and gratitude.

This Veterans Appreciation Day event perfectly reflects Phillipsburg’s tight-knit community and its pride in those who have served the country. The event not only honors the sacrifices of the veterans but also fosters a sense of unity among students, families, and the full field of fans, all connected to our country and community.

The Phillipsburg School District event is a tradition of honoring the brave men and women who continue to inspire future generations through their service.

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