When Richard Hayzler was hired as Principal of PTHS in August of 2019, one of his goals was to hold true to the traditions that make PTHS a special place in the Pequannock community.  Increasing alumni recognition was a priority as the students who have walked the halls of PTHS carry with them not only the memories of the past, but also a connection to the future.  There is so much that the current students can learn from those who have come before them.  There is no greater recognition than honoring those who have served our country in the armed forces, who have made a commitment to a life of service, patriotism and honor.  In early 2020, Rich was looking for ways to honor the PTHS veterans and in discussions with faculty member, Rob Mulato, they were introduced to the Mission Honor project.  Steve Mulligan, a Butler resident, was responsible for working with Butler High School on a project that honored their Veterans called Mission Honor.  Steve began working with Rich on gathering information on PTHS Veterans and the groundwork for the project began.  

In September of 2021, Mr. Hayzler approached the students in the STEM Academy and asked them to create some sketches using their knowledge of AutoCAD.  Under the direction of then teacher, Rob Lockatell, the students generated four designs that became the foundation for the current project.  The students displayed their designs at a football game that October.  Fundraising began for the project but it became a larger project than one or two people could possible do and more fundraising was required.  The building of the Veterans Wall was put on pause as Mr. Hayzler continued working with Colleen Murphy McMahon, a PTHS Alumni-Class of 1978, on locating veterans for when the Veterans Wall could be built. 

Under the leadership of Dr. Michael Portas, Superintendent of Schools, and Rich Hayzler, members of the community joined together and began discussing the best ways to complete the project.  A non-profit organization was established for the Pequannock Township High School Veterans Wall.  Colleen Murphy McMahon and Dave Kohle, PTHS Class of 1983,  spearheaded the fundraising for the wall and began seeking out contractors who were willing to assist.  It was amazing how quickly things came together and by January of 2024, final designs were being discussed and donations began coming in.  

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in May of 2024 and following the conclusion of the school year, work began to get completed on the Veterans Wall.  Throughout the summer various local businesses contributed to the wall's completion.  Once the plaques of our veterans are complete, they will be mounted on the wall and a dedication ceremony will be held on November 17th at 12:00 pm with a reception to follow.

Updated 10/3/2024    

"The PTHS Alumni Veterans Wall is a testament to the Golden Panthers who dedicated their lives to serving our country.   Recognizing our PTHS veterans is not just about honoring their service—it is about acknowledging the sacrifices they've made to protect our freedoms and ensuring their stories are remembered for generations to come.  May the Alumni Veterans Wall be a symbol of hope, courage, honor, loyalty, strength and Golden Panther Pride for our entire community.  On behalf of Pequannock Township High School, I would like to thank everyone who made this Alumni Veterans Wall become a reality."    

Richard M. Hayzler, Principal of Pequannock Township High School

Students:  Back Left: Kyle Tomaskovic, Ethan Bernstein, Lucas Nacion, Luke Shore, Connor Griffith, Owen Casey, Michal Magiera, Mr. Honig

                    Front Left:  Olivia Maizys, Sarah Maybee, Morgan Powers, Katherine Sakdalan

                   Not pictured:  Mr. Lockatell, Ralph Savastano