Veterans Day Program

This morning, a district-wide special program was held at the high school to honor our veterans, and it was awesome!

There were representatives from every branch of the armed forces, and the guest speaker was Mr. David Boyer - a 2000 graduate of Swanton who is currently serving in the Army. Miss Mackenzie Simon led all of us in the Pledge of Allegiance. The children from Crestwood sang a beautiful song for us, as only little ones can do, with special solos by Alexis Bergman, Olivia Bergman, and Joellen McDonnall. Park School children also sang a special song, accompanied with hand motions and cards held high to represent a large American flag in the bleachers.

Two young ladies from the Middle School - Courtney Barker and Lauren Keefer - gave a joint speech on freedom, and we were also shown a slide presentation prepared by the SHS Interactive Media Class with stirring music playing in the background (and some cool special effects on some of the slides!). Our high school band played a medley of the songs from each branch of the service, as well as other patriotic numbers that brought tears to my eyes.

High School Principal Steve Gfell concluded by sharing a personal story of his experience in the airport at Nashville last year when he learned that the plane he was trying to exit carried the body of a fallen soldier. His description of the respectful actions of everyone at that huge airport toward this unknown soldier touched all of our hearts.

A luncheon was then provided for our veterans at the Swanton Sports Center. Mrs. Betse Schmitz and Mrs. Carol Arvin really outdid themselves with their efforts here - everything was beautifully decorated, and the food and service were excellent. Both ladies were decked out in pretty, patriotic aprons and they took very good care of our guests by serving and keeping coffee cups filled around the room. The time and care they put into this luncheon was evident to all.

Many thanks to everyone who contributed to such a wonderful day!