November 11, 2021
Prince Honors Local Veterans
As they approached the entranceway, veterans and guests attending the Prince Avenue Christian School Veterans Day Ceremony were greeted with cheers of “Thank you for your service,” from third-graders as students waved flags of appreciation and welcome.
The Prince Veterans Day Ceremony has become a favorite tradition at the school. The event provides a unique opportunity for Prince military parents, grandparents, and friends as well as community members to be recognized by the student body for their sacrifice and service while also providing an important learning experience for students regarding patriotism and freedom. Members from all branches of the military attended.
The ceremony was opened with prayer by Prince Head of School Col Seth Hathaway followed by posting of the colors. The remainder of the ceremony was student-led beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American flag. The Prince Avenue Advanced Band combined efforts with the Voices of Prince to perform the National Anthem and Patriotic Medley.
Students then explained the history of Veterans Day as well as the history of the musical anthem of each branch of service. Veterans were invited to stand and were honored with applause when their branch’s song was played. Following the anthems, a lower school student summarized the meaning of the POW/MIA white table based on the children’s book by Margo Raven, and middle and high school students concluded the ceremony by reading letters that had been written to thank veterans and their families.
Many veterans sent a picture of themselves in uniform to be included as part of the program. The pictures combined with student artwork and handwritten letters provided a personal connection from the students to the veterans on this special occasion. Afterward, students, faculty, and staff enjoyed visiting with veterans and their families as refreshments were served for special guests.
