School district pays tribute to local veterans

Student council members and solo singers from the elementary school Veterans Day assembly are pictured above.

Nov. 30, 2009—In celebration of Veterans’ Day, a number of local veterans spent the morning at Duanesburg schools on Nov. 10.

During assemblies at both the elementary school and middle/high school, students recognized and honored veterans’ for their dedicated service.

Middle/high school

At the middle/high school, students listed to a presentation by two members of the Stratton Air National Guard 139th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron—Major Sergeant James Welch and Staff Sergeant Randy Welch.

The entire student body listened as the servicemen described the differences between each of the military branches. They also spoke candidly about their personal experiences—discussing the best and worst things about serving as they shared photos depicting their travels and duties.

Elementary school

More than 20 veterans proudly entered the elementary school cafeteria to the tune of students singing “America the Beautiful.”

Throughout the annual celebration, students sang a variety of other songs, including
“The Star Spangled Banner,” “Thank a Vet,” “God Bless America” and the “Duanesburg Family Song.”

Fifth-graders adorned each of the veterans with appreciation necklaces they made to express their gratitude.

The assembly also featured a number of special guests including Norman Miller, a Duanesburg resident and retiree from the US Air Force who played taps—a bugle call that is often used at military funerals, wreath-laying ceremonies and memorials.

Dr. Brian Bliss taught students what it means to be a veteran. He shared a PowerPoint presentation complete with photos of infamous vets and words used to describe veterans, such as compassionate, selfless and courageous. He encouraged students to not just thank a veteran today for what they did, but for who they are.