Honoring All Who Serve

Veterans Day was celebrated on Mon., Nov. 11th with programs at Redfield School. Many veterans, students, school staff, and community members came to the event. Tribute was reverently paid to those who served and to those who are currently serving.
Veterans Day grew from Armistice Day, which commemorated the end of the First World War. In 1954, the name was changed to Veterans Day, with the purpose of honoring all veterans, no matter where or when they served.
The Veterans Day programs in Redfield had many moving parts. There were flag-bearers, singers, a band, a video, recitations, prayers, and speakers. Groups involved included The American Legion, The Legion Auxiliary, the VFW, the Sons of the VFW, and Redfield students and staff.
The programs held emotion and significance for many. Taps was played. A table was set up in remembrance of the sacrifice of those who served, particularly those who suffered or never made it home. Several veterans stood up to be recognized.
Major General Mark Stammer was the guest speaker. He said While Memorial exclusively recognizes our fallen soldiers, those who gave their last full measure of devotion in combat; Veterans Day is a time to recognize all those who willingly and unhesitatingly serve their country in peace and war Today is a day of reverence, celebration and proud remembrance of those achievements and the contributions of their service.
A couple of former local National Guardsmen were shown in a video interview. One reason for enlisting was to help pay for college. But the interviewees all came to the conclusion that Americas the greatest country in the world, and that their service meant so much more than just getting money for college.
After the program, veterans were served a lunchtime meal by members of the Redfield chapter of the Junior Honors Society.