HOB holds Veterans Day assembly
H.O. Brittingham Elementary School in Milton held a Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 9. Dressed in uniform or not, all of the veterans on stage were proud to be included in the special event.
Music teacher Cheryl Howard organized the annual program featuring patriotic music. The program opened with the singing of the national anthem led by teachers Wendy Coverdale and Chris Meyers.
After the pledge of allegiance, fifth-grade student Yancie Diaz-Feliz read “A Sign of Respect for American Veterans,” the reason for poppies. Then third-grader Bryce Persia read a poem about poppies. Several students from Laurie Krick’s and Stephanie Shuttleworth’s classes handed out poppies to all of the veterans.
Second-grade students led everyone in singing “America” featuring Geordan Downing and Selma Kingsberry. Third-grader Mason Trench then played “America” on the piano.
Then it was time for fourth- and fifth-grade students to shine as they sang “America the Beautiful” featuring Adrianna Powell, Ellianna Windsor, Harley Sherman and Shyann Richardson. Next the first-grade students sang “God Bless America.” Ziona Trott and Natalie Horsey led the kindergarten classes in singing “Yankee Doodle.” The third grade followed with “Grand Old Flag.”
This year’s guest speaker, DC3 Third Petty Officer James Coverdale, told the audience that he did not think of himself as a hero. He said he would serve our country all over again if needed.
The entire school sang “Let There Be Peace on Earth” featuring Jackson Isaacs, Paul Reed, Maurki James, and Caeser Harris. In a touching move, the veterans stood, waved their flags, and sang along with the students as they finished with “God Bless the U.S.A.”
The closing song, “Amazing Grace,” was performed a cappella by fifth-grader Elizabeth Brown and Kristi Baxter Malin, a lifetime friend of Howard. The program closed with the playing of “Taps.”
During the program, Assistant Principal Patti Seabolt introduced each distinguished guest and asked them to give their ranks and say when they served in the military. Guests were later photographed with their HOB family members and their photographs are on display in the school showcase.
This year’s program added a personal touch with the music being provided by Principal Ned Gladfelter on the acoustic guitar while staff members including Jedidiah Roach played keyboard with custodian Steve Norwood assisting on bass guitar. Joining them were family members Ron Howard on piano and parent Jeff Trench on electric guitar.
