We were very thankful to be invited by our granddaughter, Emma Doleshel, to a special Veterans Day Celebration Assembly on Nov. 10 at Lake Stevens High School. This was truly a special event put on by the student body and faculty. We were amazed at the students and how they handled each step of the assembly from the parking lot, to pinning flowers to lapels, serving a light breakfast, and sitting with veterans from all the many branches of service.
During the assembly we were led into a beautifully decorated gym with “Thank you Veterans” banners put up by the art department. As students entered and the ceremony began, their was such respect and calm given to the Presentation of Colors, the National Anthem, and special musical performances by the choirs and band. All of the students were dressed up for the occasion, the band in black tuxes, the choir in their choir robes, and those speaking. Everything was so professionally done, the Viking band presented the “Armed Services Medley” and each Service Seal was presented by students.
A presentation of War Memorial Stories of three former students who gave of their lives in Vietnam was a reminder to us all the price paid by each one who served. Veterans attending shared their names, ranks and where they served. Many thanked the students and faculty for this special ceremony. Some where in wheelchairs, some in uniform, hats; some were wearing their American Legion Post 181 vests. It was amazing to see men who served in World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan, and those who are still serving today.
As music was played, the veterans gave the choir and band a standing ovation. As the assembly was closing, and the colors being removed, students and veterans stood with hands over their hearts, saluting, and showing respect for the flag; it was very moving. As the veterans sat down, and the final parting words of goodbye were said, the whole student body stood and gave the veterans a very loud round of applause, and I could see, especially those Vietnam vets with tears in their eyes, got the love and welcome home they deserved.
As we left, several students came up to my husband and shook his hand and thanked him for his service. What a very special day to many who served our country and a reminder that America is the best place in the world. We sometimes don’t think students are aware or conscious of the sacrifices of our veterans or America, but, we know our future is filled with a bright future ahead.
Thank you, Lake Stevens High School students and faculty for appreciating veterans and active members of the military, letting them know that they are loved. The feeling is mutual. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are very proud of all of you!
Nancy and Bob Courtney
Bothell
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