James Hart School on Veterans Day. (Provided photo)
at James Hart School. (Provided photo)
Students in District 153 welcomed more than 110 veterans to a morning breakfast and celebration on Veterans Day.
cards honoring veterans who
were guests at James Hart
School on Monday. (Marilyn
Thomas/H-F Chronicle)
Outside of James Hart School, snow fell as the school band’s trumpeters were sounding a welcome for veterans entering the building. Walls were decorated with handmade “thank you” cards and drawings.
As the honored guests entered the gym, students gave them rousing applause and cheers. Then the gym grew quiet for the student orchestra and choir’s rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner.”
in the snow while veterans
salute the flag during the
Veterans Day event at the
school Monday.
(Provided photo)
Each branch of the service got a special salute from the band under the direction of teacher Matt Johnson. As each anthem was played, members of that branch of the service was asked to stand.
There were words of gratitude from Superintendent Dale Mitchell and others before the vets were ushered into the cafeteria for a light breakfast. Many sat with their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
flag in a ceremony before the
Veterans Day breakfast and
assembly at James Hart
School on Monday.
(Provided photo)
“When we decided to hold school on Veterans’ Day (in 2015), we were one of the few districts to do so,” Mitchell said. “We thought it was important for our students to recognize our veterans and learn their stories.”
The superintendent said now other districts are emulating District 153’s program.
He and board members are delighted that so many vets, many of whom live in the community, come out each year for the celebration.
