Anderson High School students, staff and veterans gathered Tuesday, Nov. 11, for the annual Veterans day convocation. It is an event dedicated to honor and celebrate the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This convocation brought together more than 300 people, including local veterans that have served in every branch of the military except for the Coast Guard and the Space Force.
The band started out with playing national anthems for each branch. As the songs played,the veterans began to come in. The band followed with the national anthem to honor those who have served but lost their lives during their service. Assistant principal Misty Adams gave a speech to everyone who was present in the gym, “Veterans day isn’t just a day on the calendar,” she said. “It’s a day of reflection, respect, and gratitude.”
Staff sergeant Erick Aguilar of the US Army was born on Oct. 18, 1991. In 2018, he became a 14T patriot system operator. He was assigned to many jobs, until he graduated from the army recruiting college in Fort Knox, Kentucky. He is now currently assigned to Anderson’s station as a recruiter. “Regardless of each Veterans branch, experience, and time in service, today is for them,” he said. Anderson High School honors veterans no matter their time or experience, but for their courage to fight for their country. “We dedicate this day to honor them and their families commitment,” Aguilar said.
Veterans day is celebrated every year on Nov.11. It was established as a national holiday because it was the day that WWI ended. President Woodrow Wilson declared Nov. 11 as Armistice Day. As time passed by they changed it to Veterans day.
Many veterans celebrate the holiday because it gives them a moment to reflect on the people they served with and the experiences that have shaped them. “I still remember every single one! Their stories, just kind of like, the memories we’ve had together,” Aguilar stated. To this day, he remembers and cherishes the memories he has had with all of his comrades.
Events like these help spread the history of what has helped shape the United State’s history. Anderson High School will continue to celebrate this holiday, showing veterans that their service will always be honored.
