Veterans honored with special program
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November 17, 2022
by Amanda Curtis,
Staff Reporter
Lewis County Elementary second grade teacher Jan Ammons said it best when she answered the question, What is a Veteran? "A Veteran is someone who, at some point, has written a check to the United States of America for the amount up to and sometimes including their life." A sense of pride exuded from her as she hosted the 2022 Veterans Day Program at Lewis County Elementary School, and it could be seen and felt throughout the gymnasium.
As they do every year, with the exception of "the lost years" (thanks, Covid), first graders, veterans, community leaders and citizens filled the gym to experience the second graders' annual program.
Six students presented flags while second grade teacher, Holly Adkins, sang The National Anthem beautifully, and everyone said the Pledge of Allegiance. Serviceman, Mike Darden, presented the second grade teachers and students with an award for their hard work and dedication to the program. All eyes then turned toward the wall as a video presentation showcased Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, Marine Corp and Space Force men and women who have served.
Cissy Riley, founder of the program, then led the second graders into the songs they had practiced for weeks leading up to the day. "God Bless America" and others were sang as tiny, patriotic voices filled the gym.
Servicemen who had passed away were honored by second graders who presented gifts and flowers to their families, and Bill Lynch read the list of the combat casualties before Charlie Brewer prayed. The kids sang, "God Bless America," and I doubt there were many dry eyes in the house by the time principal Dr. Mike Taylor made his closing remarks.
The Veterans marched out of the gym and joined the students and community members in a parade that traveled down Park Street to the Court House where they presented the colors on the lawn, a quartet sang the National Anthem, the band played TAPS and more.
You are encouraged to join next year to experience the occasion for yourself.
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