On November 11, 2008 high school and middle school students gathered in the gym to thank and honor over 90 guest veterans.  The assembly began with the posting of our colors, the pledge, and the singing of our National Anthem, all led by members of the student body.  The 4th annual Veterans Day assembly continued with greetings and entertainment from all levels of students from Southern Boone County Schools. 

The POW/MIA Toast table was brought to us by senior Laura Harrison.  She witnessed a similar presentation while attending Girls’ State in July and wanted to share with our guests.  This table was designed and presented in honor of those servicemen and women who were prisoners of war or missing in action.  While normally the presentation is given at formal military dinners, it was a nice symbolic addition to the program. 

At this year’s program we were fortunate to have student participants from each building level.  The 4th grade choir, led by music teacher Elizabeth Tummons, is always a favorite. They sang two songs that would bring tears to any soldier’s eyes – and many civilians as well!  The 6th grade band gave a performance of America the Beautiful and was followed by the Middle School Drama Club. The Club gave a Reader’s Theater Presentation on Veterans Day based on an adaptation from an email story about a teacher who gives a valuable lesson to her students about veteran heroes.  In addition, veterans from each branch stood proudly as the high school band played a rendition of Armed Forces on Parade. 

Guest speaker, Master Sergeant Julie Hixson of the United States Army, addressed the school and guests with facts and information about women’s roles in the United States military history.  Having just returned from state-side assignment in Texas, we were honored to have her speak to our students, faculty, and guests and are glad that she is home safe and sound. Following M.S. Hixson’s speech, the High School Chamber Choir presented a touching song based on the poem In Flanders Field.

Most importantly, as a school and community we honored the guests who sat before us for their hard-work, sacrifice, dedication, and love for the United States.  The names and duty-station of each veteran in attendance were read.  Honoring World War II veterans as well as newly-enlisted senior class students, our community and school are proud to honor our home-town heroes.  Each veteran was given a red or white carnation as a small token of our love and appreciation for all they have done.  For those who have attended all four years of our celebration, you may have looked around and not seen some of those familiar faces.  For those heroes who have passed since we last gathered, we always take time to honor them with the lighting of the memory candle.  Following the lighting, the program ended with a beautiful echo version of Taps. 

Southern Boone County Schools would like to thank the faculty, staff, and students for participating and supporting the 4th annual Veterans Day Assembly. Most of all, we would like to honor and thank our hometown heroes for all they have done, and continue to do, for our country and community.  Your service is invaluable and without you, we couldn’t begin to enjoy the many freedoms we have today.