TOMS RIVER, NJ — In honor of Veterans Day, the Donovan Catholic community gathered for a special school-wide assembly on Wednesday, November 11, welcoming guest speaker Thy Cavagnaro and her mother for a powerful morning of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance.

Cavagnaro's story is one of courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering appreciation for the men and women who have served our nation. At just one year old, she and her family fled Vietnam as refugees, escaping only hours before the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975. Her family's journey to freedom left a lasting impact on her life and inspired a lifelong mission to honor the American service members whose sacrifices helped make that freedom possible.

In 2017, Cavagnaro founded Thanking Vietnam Veterans, an initiative dedicated to recognizing, celebrating, and supporting those who served during the Vietnam War. Alongside her husband, Jimmy, she designed and established a Vietnam War memorial in Barnegat, New Jersey, dedicated in March 2018. Through annual commemorations, educational presentations, and personal connections with veterans, she continues to ensure that their stories and sacrifices are never forgotten.

During today's assembly, Donovan Catholic students, faculty, and staff had the opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of Veterans Day and the profound impact of military service on generations of families, both here in the United States and around the world.

The presence of Cavagnaro's mother made the occasion especially meaningful, offering a powerful connection to their family's remarkable journey and the freedoms they found in America.

As a Catholic school community, Donovan Catholic strives to instill in its students the values of gratitude, compassion, service, and respect for others. Today's assembly served as a meaningful reminder that freedom is a gift, one made possible through the courage and sacrifices of countless individuals.

Donovan Catholic extends its heartfelt gratitude to Thy Cavagnaro and her mother for joining us on this special Veterans Day. We are honored to have shared in their story and grateful for the opportunity to help our students better understand the importance of remembering, honoring, and thanking those who have served.

May God bless our veterans, their families, and all those who continue to serve our country.