Warren School District held a ceremony honoring veterans on Monday, November 11. Families and friends of students along with veterans gathered to watch as children from Warren ABC Preschool and Warren Elementary school performed.
Zander Ankney opened the ceremony with a prayer followed by the posting of colors by WHS JROTC Color Guard. Jakalin Begarde then led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance which was followed by the National Anthem.
The WHS JROTC is led by Major (Retired) Mark Hammonds and First Sergeant (Retired) Chad Greenwood.
Each year on November 11, we honor and express our deep gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. military. Their sacrifices and dedication protect our freedoms and ensure our safety. Veterans Day, formerly known as Armistice Day, is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel—past and present—in defense of our country’s values and freedom. As we observe this day, it is essential not just to reflect on the historical significance of the day but to recognize the very real, ongoing impact that our veterans have on our lives, our communities, and our nation.
Veterans Day stands as a tribute to the men and women who have answered the call to serve, whether in times of peace or conflict. It is a day to reflect on the hardships they have endured, the courage they have shown, and the sense of duty that led them to put their lives on the line for the safety and well-being of others. From the battlefields of World War I to the deserts of the Middle East, veterans have fought for our freedoms, often at great personal cost.
In 2024, we are confronted with new challenges, both globally and domestically. But one thing remains constant: the bravery and commitment of our military men and women. Our veterans are not just heroes of the past—they are part of the ongoing story of America. They are the ones who protect the freedoms we hold dear, who safeguard our democracy, and who ensure that we can live our lives without fear of external threats.
This Veterans Day, it is important to remember that their service extends far beyond the battlefield. It encompasses the sacrifices of their families, the long deployments, the missed birthdays and anniversaries, the anniversaries of loss, and the transition back into civilian life. It includes the struggle of reintegration, the search for purpose, and the effort to heal from wounds both visible and invisible. It is a reminder that every veteran has a story—stories of courage, grief, survival, and hope.
