Riva Sharples | Editor
Veterans Day programs are being organized to take place in both Alcester and Beresford to recognize veterans on Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11.
A form of Veterans Day has been celebrated in the United States since 1919. Originally, it was called Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I, which occurred on November 11, 1918 (in the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). Armistice Day was officially renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all U.S. military veterans.
Here’s a look at what is happening this year to commemorate the holiday.
Alcester-Hudson program – 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11
Alcester-Hudson’s Veterans Day program will take place at 2:00 p.m. on November 11 in the high school gym. The program will feature Alcester-Hudson students grades junior kindergarten through high school participating in a variety of ways. All students will attend the program alongside the public, who are invited and encouraged to attend.
This year’s program will be mainly student-led, says Dr. Jason Van Engen, principal of Alcester-Hudson High School. The event has been moved to the gym this year (instead of the cafetorium) to accommodate a larger attendance.
“We will have students from various grade levels reading during the program along with our musicians singing and playing,” Van Engen said.
Students of all ages will read essays about democracy and patriotism, lead the Pledge of Allegiance, share a poem, sing patriotism-themed songs, share videos created by the Multimedia class, and more.
Van Engen hopes that many will be in attendance at this year’s program. It’s important for all to say thank you to our veterans, he says.
“We always enjoy having local community members — and especially our veterans — attend the program,” he said. “Ultimately, it is a time for our students to honor the commitment and sacrifice of America’s military members and say thank you for everything they have done.”
Beresford – Soup and Pie Luncheon, 12 – 1:45 p.m. Tuesday, Nov, 11
Beresford’s National Honor Society will host its annual Soup and Pie Luncheon on Veterans Day, beginning at noon in the school multipurpose room. This special event, particularly for veterans and their families, is one way students say “thank you” to those who have served. Please attend!
Beresford Veterans Day Program – 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11
Beresford’s Veterans Day program is a collaboration of community entities and the school. All 650 Beresford students attend the event, and a majority of them participate in the program in some way. Coupled with 150-300 members of the general public who come to the program, the event is extremely well attended.
This year’ program, “Honor Program for Veterans” is a collaboration of the Beresford VFW, Beresford American Legion, and Beresford School District.
This year’s Masters of Ceremonies will be Lyle Savey, Beresford American Legion Commander, and Dr. Thomas Merriman, Beresford School District Administrator.
The event will include the BHS Chorus singing the National Anthem, the BHS Band playing “To Honor America,” and the 4th and 5th graders singing the Armed Forces Medley.
This year’s featured speaker is Aaron Van Beek, CEO of Midwest Honor Flight.
After the program, don’t miss coffee and cookies in the BHS Multipurpose room, provided by the Beresford Auxiliaries.