FOXBURG, Pa. (EYT) — A-C Valley High School held a Veterans Day assembly that featured patriotic musical selections, a decorated guest speaker, and a presentation of the U.S. flag by local veterans.
Pete Hasenflu led the Pledge of Allegiance, and then the chorus sang the National Anthem.
The band played “American Flourish” by Robert W. Smith and afterward, a history of Veterans Day was given.
“Since the founding of this powerful nation, brave men and women have defended this country, the flag, and the truths set forth in the the Declaration of Independence: ‘That all men are created equal; That they are endowed with certain unalienable Rights; that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.'”
“We were not simply born with these rights. They had to be fought for by our veterans. This day is to honor those who made America what it is today. Today, we serve our veterans as they served our country.”
“‘Honor to the soldier and sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country’s cause. Honor, also, to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field and serves, as best as he can.’ -Abraham Lincoln.”
Veteran’s Day, first called Armistice Day, began in 1918 on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, as an armistice, or cease in fighting during The Great War.
One year later, President Woodrow Wilson made Armistice a day of celebration and honor. Armistice Day became a federal holiday in 1938 and was later changed to “veterans day” after the second world war in 1945.
It was intended to honor all men and women who fought in all wars, those still serving, those who survived, and the ones who gave the ultimate sacrifice- their lives.
Ordinary people became soldiers with so little in return. They put their own interests, time, and family members aside to protect their country and keep America strong.
The courageous people in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard have always been and will always be the first line of defense to keep us safe. They keep America together and whole.
Elmer Davis, The Director of the United States Office of War Information during World War II once said that: “This Nation will remain the Land of the Free only so long as it is the Home of the Brave.”
The Hometown Heroes Banner Project was presented by Michael Owen Goughler, who graduated from A-C Valley in 1991 and then graduated from IUP with a degree in Culinary Arts and Business. He worked at Dollywood for four years and has been outgoing in his community. This community involvement led him to take charge of the banner project because he holds the cause close to his heart. Michael Goughler currently lives in Parker with his spouse Lindsley Dunn and his son Zachary Goughler.
Sixth-grade students from Miss.Texter’s class presented “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.”
The band also played “Salute to America’s Finest” directed by Mr.DiTullio.
Then, Mrs. Lowrey and the A-C Valley Junior and Sr. High Choir performed “In Flanders Fields.”
The keynote speaker was Mr. George Graf, a 1967 graduate of Hampton High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the army and went through basic training in 1971. He became a simulation programmer/analyst.
In September of 1975, he was called back into active duty and became a scientific programmer for three years. After those three years, he worked as Chief, Automation Division, U.S. Army Foreign Science at a Technology Center.
He has been recognized for his immense service. In 2001, he received a decoration for exceptional civilian service which is the highest award bestowed upon the department of army civilians from the secretary of the army. In 2003, he was the distinguished alumni of the year for public service. Also, in 2006, he was inducted into Hampton of Heroes for his military service. He has acquired numerous other awards.
Mr. Graf lives in Virginia and enjoys spending time with his three children, four grandchildren, and his wife Diane.
Closing remarks explained the plight of the homeless veterans.
“Today, there are more than 21.8 million living veterans. Of these veterans, approximately 40,000 of them are homeless. At A-C Valley, we would like to honor their solemn pledge to defend our freedom and for their example of service and sacrifice. We are very thankful and lucky to have different clubs working together to help with today’s presentation.”
Outside the auditorium, there were coloring pages by elementary students and photos to honor different family members and loved ones who have served.
Also, members of the GIVE Club cleaned veterans’ tombstones at Nickleville and Emlenton cemeteries.
The GIVE Club is collecting coffee for the Mechling-Shakley Veterans Center on Route 268, which is the fifth largest residential housing center for veterans in the United States. Donations will be accepted through Friday, November 17.
