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I spent the entire morning crying, but in a good way. My dad is the principal of a local high school. I am frequently impressed with this school and it's students. Today I was even more impressed than usual. Today the school put on an assembly to honor veterans. My mom and I decided to attend. When I first got there, I was surprised to see how many kids were dressed up, some in suits and ties. At first I thought they must be participating, but then I realized they were just being respectful to the veterans. It was very impressive.
Selected students gave brief recaps of World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War the Gulf War and the War on Terrorism. After each recap - from which I learned a lot I didn't know - they honored a veteran of that conflict. The veteran stood to be recognized and the student body gave them a standing ovation. It was very moving. It was obvious that these men were humbled to be honored by these high school students.
One student played Amazing Grace on the bagpipes, the ballroom dance team did a naval-inspired number and the choir sang the service song medley. During the medley the men and women who had served in that branch of the armed forces stood to be recognized. The students clapped again. I cried again when one elderly man stood and saluted the students and another waved to them.
Selected students gave brief recaps of World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War the Gulf War and the War on Terrorism. After each recap - from which I learned a lot I didn't know - they honored a veteran of that conflict. The veteran stood to be recognized and the student body gave them a standing ovation. It was very moving. It was obvious that these men were humbled to be honored by these high school students.
One student played Amazing Grace on the bagpipes, the ballroom dance team did a naval-inspired number and the choir sang the service song medley. During the medley the men and women who had served in that branch of the armed forces stood to be recognized. The students clapped again. I cried again when one elderly man stood and saluted the students and another waved to them.
In a day and age when there is not always respect shown from the younger generation to their forbears, this was a beautiful experience and one that I wish could be repeated in high schools across this nation. I think it would be a powerful tool for patriotism and honor. I'm just grateful I got to be a part of it.On a humorous note, today is also my dad's birthday. The student body started the assembly by embarassing him with a dorky hat and by singing happy birthday. I think it meant a lot to him. He works hard and I'm glad the kids like and respect him. Unfortunately, my camera doesn't take very good indoor pictures.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!
2 comments:
I got a little teary eyed reading that. It is so true, how children these days are not only being raised to be disrespectful and irreverent, but that it is actually encouraged in so many ways. I am so grateful to live in an area where you can still find a great deal of respect for mankind and our country. Thanks for sharing! I may have to send my kids to your dad's school!:)
Our dad is so cute
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