Paramus Catholic student teams up with Wreaths Across America, honors veterans
For the fourth consecutive year, Haskell resident, and current senior at Paramus Catholic High School, Allen Magie, dedicated his time and service to those who valiantly served America. Magie once again honored the 243 veterans laid to rest at Wanaque’s Midvale Cemetery by laying wreaths on every one of their graves during the Christmas holiday season.
On a Saturday in December, Allen was joined by the VFW and Auxiliary of Post 6765, American Legion Post 246, Wanaque Police Department, Mayor Mahler, friends, family, and community members to uphold the mission of Wreaths Across America, an organization originally formed in 1992 when Maine businessman Morrill Worcester placed the first 5,000 wreaths in Arlington National Cemetery.
Since then, wreath-laying ceremonies have been carried out in all 50 states, at sea, and abroad. In 2022, nearly 2.7 million wreaths were placed across the country.
Magie is no stranger to service. During freshmen, sophomore, and junior years he received the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Award for completing over 100 hours of community service. He is also the 2021 recipient of the Points of Light Award, a 2020 recipient of the New Jersey Governor’s Jefferson Award for Youth in Service, and the 2019 recipient of The Kids Who Make Magic Award.
A varsity hockey player at Paramus Catholic, he also volunteers with the Skate It Forward Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by his parents. Allen hopes to continue playing hockey in college next year, possibly at Mercy Hurst or the College of William and Mary.
The idea of serving has been embedded in Allen since he was a child.
“When I was 10 years old, my mom took me to visit the cemetery where my ‘pop’ is buried,” Magie recalled. “It was then and there I observed volunteers laying wreaths. One of the volunteers explained the mission of Wreaths Across America and I knew this was something I wanted to participate in. My parents promised I’d be able to participate once I entered high school.”
Allen credits his soon-to-be alma mater with nurturing his passion for service. “We are taught at PC to remember those less fortunate than ourselves, and to make a difference in people and in society”, he said. ”PC shows you how to excel in life.”
At the wreath-laying ceremonies last month, U.S. Army veteran and Director of Operations at Paramus Catholic, Michael Freimuth, presented the ceremonial wreath representing the Army.
“Everyone has the ability to give back,” Allen said. “Find something you are passionate about and work from there. Trust that you will indeed make an impact.”
Photo Credits: Courtesy Paramus Catholic High School
- Allen Magie, Senior, Paramus Catholic High School
- (b/w , Allen at podium at event); caption:
“Paramus Catholic’s Allen Magie honoring Veterans at Wreaths Across America ceremony in Wanaque, NJ.
- (b/w two persons); caption:
“Paramus Catholic Director of Operations and Army Veteran Michael Freimuth presents ceremonial wreath representing the Army.
- Allen Magie profile ad, Paramus Catholic High
