Veterans Honor Assembly

8th graders at OTMS learn the true meaning of citizenship [article by Colleen Heitman, 8th grade Social Studies teacher at Overland Trail M.S.]

“Freedom is never free (unknown).” The 8th grade students of Overland Trail Middle School are learning this very fact as they honor and celebrate the men and women of the armed forces at their 2nd Annual Veterans Honor Assembly. The students have invited family and community members to a celebration to thank them for their service to our country through special certificates that will be presented to each soldier and veteran. The assembly will be held on Thursday, November 11th, from 1:00 to 2:40 P.M. in the gymnasium. Students have invited veterans from local nursing homes, neighbors, and family to be recognized at this event.

A special guest speaker will give the Veterans Day message, Mr. John Wedemeyer, a recently discharged soldier who served in Iraq for two tours and Afghanistan for one tour. Mrs. Fran Booth from the Fort Vasquez Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will also speak on behalf of the community for our appreciation of our veterans’ service, and the promotion of patriotism for our community and country.

Social Studies students in Miss Colleen eitman’s and Mrs. Marcel Martin’s classes have been learning the importance of patriotism, community service, and good citizenship. They have gained an understanding of Cynthia Ozick’s quote, “We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.” It is with
great pride that we observe Veterans Day in a most auspicious ceremony for our service men and women, remembering, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them (J.F.K.).”