Veterans treated to special day at EAHS
By Heather Ruenz
SLN staff
The veterans entered the gymnasium at Elkhorn Area High School last Friday morning at varying paces. Some walked on their own accord, others with a cane or assistance while a few were pushed in wheelchairs – all of them treated to an escort by family members and students.
All who had gathered for the fifth annual program – students, staff and community members – remained standing while the more than 90 guests of honor, the local heroes, made their way down the center aisle, having just finished breakfast in the cafeteria.
After VFW Post 6375 presented the colors and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited – led by Alexandra Moreno, students Annalise Ocken and Anna Krauklis sang the national anthem.
Megan Degner shared the history of “The Star Spangled Banner,” which states that Francis Scott Key penned a poem in 1814 that was later set to music and in 1931 became America’s national anthem. The poem was written after Key had witnessed the Maryland fort being bombarded by the British during the War of 1812.
In sharing the history of Veterans Day, Alexander Johnson and Caden Reece explained it’s held the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month to commemorate the armistice signed between the allies of World War I and Germany, and is referred to as Armistice Day.
“Unlike Memorial Day, set aside to remember those who died, Veterans Day is largely attended to thank living veterans throughout the United States,” Reece said.
Principal Chris Trottier, prior to introducing the guest speaker, had a simple message for the veterans.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your service. We are grateful to have you here today,” he said.
Read the rest of the story and see additional photos in the Nov. 15 Independent.
