On Tuesday, November 11, students at Thomas County Upper Elementary and Thomas County Middle School hosted special Veterans Day assemblies to recognize and celebrate veterans in our community. During the programs, The Thomas County Sherriff’s Department honored veterans with a presentation of the colors. After reciting the pledge, the attendees at the assembly were treated to a performance of the “Star Spangled Banner” by the TCMS band and “Our America” by the TCMS chorus. During the 5th and 6th grade assembly, Mr. Chris Newsome, a US Navy Veteran, was the guest speaker. The 7th and 8th grade assembly included a speech from veteran Mark Ponzillo. The band performed “In Honor of the Fallen” at both assemblies, and the final event in each assembly was a joint performance of “My America” by the TCMS band and honors chorus. Students at the school created a special Wall of Honor in the front lobby of the school to honor the veterans in their lives.
TCUE principal Dr. Scott James , a veteran himself, recognizes the importance of celebrating Veterans Day. He said, “As a nation, we owe a great deal of thanks to our veterans, and active service members, for the freedom and quality of life that we enjoy in America. The teachers and students at Thomas County Middle and Thomas County Upper Elementary wanted to have these Veterans Day assemblies to express our appreciation to veterans for their part in making sure the United States remains “the land of the free and the home of the brave.”
TCMS principal Dr. Kathy Keown is the mother of a veteran. In commenting on Veterans Day, she noted, “I’m thankful for the men and women who make a commitment and have the courage to defend our country regardless of the personal cost. As the mom of a veteran from the Operation Iraqi Freedom War, I am always extremely appreciative of recognition for our veterans and their families. We want our children and youth to know the significance of Veterans Day, and it makes me proud that the staff and students of Thomas County Middle School have taken the time to celebrate the service of all our US veterans.”