On Nov. 11 of 1918, World War I was ended with the signing of the Armistice. Since then, Armistice Day or Remembrance Day has been celebrated nationally and gained the name of Veterans Day in the United States.
Patriotism was proudly displayed Friday, Nov. 11 throughout the city of De Soto with American flag displays. Within the district, multiple schools celebrated the patriotic holiday with assemblies and activities.
Belmont Elementary School prepared a patriotic assembly by the 4th grade class.
“The program was a moving tribute that helped all of our students and staff reconnect with an understanding of our freedom as Americans and the price paid to allow us that freedom,” Belmont Principal Pam Hargrove said.
Belmont students donated some of their Halloween candy the day after to send to soldiers in Afghanistan. The school also plans on making Christmas cards for veterans this season.
At Horizon Elementary, a celebration was organized complete with the Presentation of Colors led by Boy Scout Pack 3451 and The Star Spangled Banner sung by School Improvement Specialist, Ben Huebsch. Like Belmont, Horizon had a slide show playing with Horizon family veterans in uniform and included a guest speaker, Army Sgt. 1st Class Juaquin Orosco.
“It is important to reflect upon and appreciate the accomplishments and sacrifices of our service men and women. We owe them and the country they have defended a heart-felt day of recognition,” Horizon Principal Kim Gracy said.
Riverview Elementary incorporated a retired guest speaker, Master Sgt. Lanard A. Paden, and fourth-grade students led the assembly with patriotic songs and 48 Veterans ranging from WWII through active duty were recognized and introduced by their host students.
Veterans Day at Mill Creek consisted of honoring veterans with an assembly as well as with a guest speaker and a student speech. Artwork was created for the event and students were given the opportunity to ask the veterans questions about their experiences during service for the United States of America. The Mill Creek eighth-grade students in Family and Consumer Sciences class also created 180 fleece hats to send to a military base in Virginia to be distributed to the United States Army.
Lexington Trails Middle School also hosted a patriotic assembly with veterans, songs and a speaker.
At Clear Creek Elementary School, 42 veterans were involved in their impressive assembly with involvement by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars post, girl and boy scouts and the playing of Taps. A 1968 military vehicle actually used in the Vietnam War was even parked outside the school.
These schools were proud to do their part in recognizing the commitment and sacrifice that all of the veterans have shown to this country.