This year, the National Honor Society, advised by Mrs. Nichole Briggs, hosted the annual Veteran’s Day Assembly on Friday, Nov. 10 in the auditorium.
Middle school principal Mr. Rehmeyer gave opening statements. Following this, National Honor Society president Alex Resinger announced the presentation of the colors by Boy Scout Troop 222 members Colin Barlup, Tanner Rice, and Garrett Jenny.
After the colors were presented, Reisinger led the Pledge of Allegiance. After the Pledge of Allegiance, the High School Chorus, led by Mrs. Wiles, sang The National Anthem and “I Sing a Song for America.” The latter, arranged by Douglas E. Wagner, is a tribute to America and the Americans who honor her and features the American classic “America the Beautiful.”
Every year, the National Honor Society chooses a Veterans organization to sponsor. This year, the National Honor Society presented a $500 check to the local VFW post 34.
Senior Jordan Knouse recited ‘What Is a Veteran,’ a poem written by a marine named Father Denis Edward O’Brien. The author intended to give people the message of ‘don’t judge a book by its cover.’ Junior Mikala Deiter then gave a brief statement about the intention of Veterans Day and why every American should celebrate it. She also gave a brief history of Veteran’s Day.
Besides the chorus performances, the high school concert band, led by Mrs. Mullen, performed the “Armed Forces Salute,” otherwise known as the “Armed Forces Medley.” This song, devoted to our military, consists of a collection of marchpasts of the five branches: Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and Air Force; former marching band director Ben Carraher arranged this particular version.
Every Veteran’s Day assembly has its very own guest speaker to share their story of the military and to explain to students the benefits that the military can offer today’s young people. This year, the National Honor Society selected Mr. Sean Wilson, son of Maintenance Supervisor Mr. Bill Wilson, to come in and share his story. Additionally, Army recruiter, Staff Sergeant Devyn Kerney, gave a speech as well.
“Having two young veterans come in made more of an impact on the students,” explained Reisinger about the speeches. “I think it got them more involved in the assembly.”
There was supposed to be a slideshow including students’ families and friends who have served in the military, but, due to technology issues, the slideshow was not presented. The slideshow is on the main Newport Website for viewing. To close the ceremony, junior drum major Benjamin Stewart, played “Taps” as the color guard retired the colors.
This assembly is meant to honor and recognize all of the veterans who have served in the U.S. military, fallen or not. The National Honor Society continued the tradition and honored America’s veterans throughout the festivities. Mrs. Briggs commented, “I think it went well. I liked Sean’s question and answer session, and, as always, the band and choir were amazing.”
