 |
|
| First graders at St. John the Baptist School in Jefferson thank veterans at a special tribute program held on Veterans Day. (Contributed photo) |
JEFFERSON — On Wednesday, Nov. 11, students and staff at St. John the Baptist Catholic School in Jefferson presented their annual tribute to veterans in the parish church.
The eighth grade students escorted guests to their seats after presenting them with flags and patriotic wristbands.
Principal Mrs. Susan Loof formally welcomed veterans and thanked them for their service to our country. She then offered a prayer for the veterans and their families.
This was preceded by students and staff singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The color guard, comprised of Boy Scouts, presented their flags and led everyone in the “Pledge of Allegiance.”
Music teacher Andrea Haffelder conducted students in the opening song of thanks. The remainder of the program consisted of special tributes presented by students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
These included: expressions of thanks and characteristics of veterans, traditional songs and those presented in sign language, posters, a timeline history of Veterans Day, slide show of reflections, symbolism behind the folding of the U.S. flag, choral tribute to the veterans’ dedication to family and country, and prayers of blessing and gratitude.
Before the blessing of veterans, parishioner and veteran Ken Nelson expressed his sincere gratitude to the students and staff for the many cards and letters that were presented to him aboard the Badger Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., last spring. He shared the significance of that experience and how grateful he was for all of the letters of support and thanks.
Pastor Fr. Tom Coyle conferred a special blessing upon the veterans and their families before the conclusion of the program. The final song, “God Bless the USA,” was sung by everyone as students and staff encircled the veterans and their families.
Following the program, veterans and their guests were treated to refreshments and fellowship provided by the eighth graders.