Racine, OH – Southern Local School District proudly celebrated and honored our Veterans on Tuesday, November 11, with two special programs recognizing the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
PreK–6 Veterans Day Program (8:30 a.m.)
The morning began with the Posting of the Colors, followed by a moving performance of the “Star-Spangled Banner” by the 4th-grade class under the direction of Mr. Darren Jackson.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the 7–12 Student Council Body President, and Mr. Russ Fields welcomed attendees as Master of Ceremonies.
Additional highlights included:
Performance of “Anchors Aweigh” by the SHS Band, directed by Mr. Chad Dodson
4th grade singing “America (My Country ’Tis of Thee)”, directed by Mr. Darren Jackson
Veterans Day quotes read by SHS NHS Officers: Laynee Hill, Jaylynn Hupp, Noah Leachman, Kianna Rose, and Kiersten Rose
Recognition of Veterans on staff and Veterans in attendance
SHS Band performance of “The Caissons Go Rolling Along”
Explanation of “Why Veterans Day Is Important” by PreK–6 Principal Mrs. Tricia McNickle
Retiring of the Colors
Grades 7–12 Veterans Day Program (9:30 a.m.)
The second program began with the Posting of the Colors and the National Anthem performed by the SHS Band, directed by Mr. Chad Dodson.
The Pledge of Allegiance was again led by the 7–12 Student Council Body President, followed by a welcome from 7–12 Principal Mr. Daniel Otto.
Program components included:
Presentation of Quilts of Valor by Brenda Johnson to Veterans Mrs. Sue Tuttle and Mr. Dan Arnold
Veterans Day quotes read by Laynee Hill, Jaylynn Hupp, Noah Leachman, Kianna Rose, and Kiersten Rose
Showing of the “Armistice Day” video featuring a reading of “In Flanders Fields” by Damien Gilland
Acknowledgment of Veterans on staff and in attendance by MC Mr. Russ Fields
A special recognition and plaque presented by Superintendent Mr. Tony Deem to Mr. Jim Freeman for his military service
Viewing of “You Are the Reason” tribute video
Roll Call of the Fallen, conducted by Superintendent Mr. Tony Deem and SLSD Tech Coordinator Mr. Ed Baker, honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. As each name was read, it was displayed on the screen, a bell tolled, the scoreboard counted down, and a candle was extinguished for each war.
“Taps” performed by Mr. David Maxson
Retiring of the Colors
Acknowledgments
Southern Local extends heartfelt gratitude to all Veterans who have served and who continue to serve our nation.
Special thanks to the individuals and groups whose work made these programs possible:
Russ Fields, Darren Jackson and the fourth-grade class, Chad Dodson and the Southern High School Band, Brenda Johnson, David Maxson, Tricia McNickle, Daniel Otto, Audrey Riffle, Laynee Hill, Jaylynn Hupp, Noah Leachman, Kianna Rose, Kiersten Rose, Damien Gilland, Laz Priddy, Ed Baker, Tony Deem, Beth Lanning, Beth Bay, and Elizabeth Johnson.
Southern Local would be remiss not to acknowledge the absence of a man who deeply supported his country, our school system, and this annual program: Mr. Denny Evans. His presence was greatly missed today.
