High School Student Council Organizes Veterans Day Ceremony
•November 17, 2021•
by Crystal Reed
NP Writer
The program began with the presentation of the flags by Dakota Freese and Jennifer Hobbs. The playing of the military branch songs was held, and those veterans in attendance were encouraged to stand during their branch’s song.
Dakota Freese, who is serving in the Illinois National Guard, was one of the guest speakers for the program. After high school, he wanted to join the infantry and become a ranger, but he told of his interest in being a welder or mechanic.
Jennifer Hobbs, a former Sullivan Elementary teacher who is the author of Calmed: Growth After Trauma, joined the Army National Guard at the age of 17 and at 19, was mobilized to Iraq.
She said that after being in a combat zone, going home was a difficult adjustment. While serving overseas, her husband was hit by a roadside bomb. “Whatever the struggles that come into your life, it is you; you who decide how you handle that. You can give up, don’t give up, or you can look that it as an opportunity to grow.”
Members of the student council read selections with the ending line of “On Veterans Day remember.” Students Lily Graham and Clayton Schmohe sang “America.” Students and staff members who have family currently serving or who have served were encouraged to stand.
The program closed with the playing of “Taps” and a moment of silence.