STUDENT SPIRIT… Elementary students perform their addition to the program.
(PHOTOS BY BREANA RELIFORD / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
PRESENTATION OF COLORS … American Legion Post #10 delivers the flags.
By: Breana Reliford
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
“They left their families, they left their homes, they left their jobs, and they left their lives.” Retired Master Chief, Jon Ely, of the U.S. Navy shared his emotional testimony of what it meant to him to serve and protect our county.
On Friday, November 8, 2024, Edgerton Local Schools invited community veterans, alumni, and friends to attend their annual Veterans Day program.
Students and teachers from elementary to high school gathered in the gymnasium to honor those who have served our country.
The ceremony included musical performances, speeches, and tributes to pay respect to the men and women who fought for millions of Americans’ freedom.
As veterans poured into the school, the excitement grew for those waiting to perform their prepared musical pieces for them.
Beginning around 9:00 am, Edgerton Sophomore Logan Samper greeted guests with the beautiful sound of piano melodies to set the scene for the event.
The presentation of the colors was provided by American Legion Post #10. The National Anthem followed, performed by the Edgerton High School Band, under the direction of Miss Zoe Scott.
Dr. Ben Wilhelm, Superintendent of Edgerton, welcomed those in attendance and allowed veterans to be recognized with the reading of the names of Edgerton High School graduates mentioned on the Wall of Honor.
To begin the musical portion, Samper once again took the stage to perform a musical arrangement on piano featuring several well-known patriotic tunes, such as “Yankee Doodle”, “You’re a Grand Old Flag”, and “The Star-Spangled Banner” as many hummed along.
Up next were the elementary students, many of them dressed head to toe in red, white, and blue attire, showing their support and patriotism. These students have been practicing weeks in advance for this very performance.
The students gave a very energetic performance including singing a few songs accompanied by dance moves and motions, led by Mrs. Alicia Krill.
Following the elementary was the Jr. High Band. They performed a few songs as well, also under the direction of Miss Zoe Scott.
To conclude the musical portion of the program, the Edgerton Middle School and High School Choirs joined together in the proper formation and sang, featuring a solo performed by Edgerton Senior, Jewel Cheek.
Wilhelm then introduced the honored guest speaker, Retired Master Chief Jon Ely of the United States Navy.
Ely took the podium to speak on behalf of his time in the service. He shared his personal experience and defined the true meaning of being a veteran, inspiring many in the audience from students to community members.
“They did this not for recognition and fame, or even the honor we bestow upon them today. They did it to protect our country, our values, our peace, our freedoms, and to maintain our way of life.”
He went on to describe the dignity veterans carry with them. “Not only did they protect our freedom, but they are leaders and volunteers, inside and outside of service.”
“They are role models for all our citizens. They want to achieve, and they want to win. Their fighting spirit is the backbone of our great nation.”
As many juniors and seniors are starting to consider the path for their future, serving in the military is an option that is both rewarding and admirable, shown today by Mr. Ely.
The closing remarks were given by Wilhelm and Taps was performed by Mr. Jason Zumbaugh, Edgerton Elementary 4th grade teacher.
