NLHS Student Council Honors Local Veterans

Each year, the New London High School Students Council help and execute a Veterans Day Observance at the Lorber Gymnasium. All thirteen grades attend. One hundred five years ago, “On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month,” the armistice ending the Great War was signed. The day has since become Veterans Day, and honors all men and women who have served our country defending principles and rights stated in the Constitution and Declaration of Independence.

The morning began at 8:45 with a breakfast served by the Student Council members. The veterans and their families were served coffee, juice and an assortment of pastries. The veterans then moved to seats in the center of the gym floor. As the students filed in from their classes, many of them proudly joined their parents or grandparents on the main floor. Superintendent Wahl welcomed everyone and the VFW Post 7541 presented the colors. The NLHS choir sang the national anthem.

Several traditions have emerged during the years the school has observed Veterans Day. Mr. Palmatier and our K-5 Clark Elementary students lead the Pledge of Allegiance. A video tribute composed by Zoe Long with the help of the Student Council Advisor, Mrs. Melissa Bence and Activities Director, Ms. Emily Parks. The video features pictures of our local veterans during their years of service. The Recognition of the Six Military Branches is especially moving. The Armed Forces Medley was played by the band. As each official song of the branch was played, our local veterans from that branch stood and was recognized by the audience. It still takes a moment to figure the newest march – Space Force. The others are very familiar: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

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The guest speaker this year was Marine Staff Sergeant Michael J. Leber. He is the Marine recruiter for this area. He spoke of the meaning of Veterans Day both to our nation and to himself personally. His years of experience were apparent in his bearing and conduct. He was able to visit with many of our local veterans during breakfast and as they were seated waiting for the observation to begin.

Members of the Student Council demonstrated the proper folding of the American Flag for storage. Tysann Gipple read the meaning of each fold as it was executed. When the flag is folded at the funeral of a Veteran, the meanings seem extra special. Mr. Arnold Anderson played taps and a moment of silence was held. The colors were then retired.

Our local veterans have answered the call of the nation and they lived the following words. “Duty, honor, country. These three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, what you will be.” They now pass the duty to our young people.