Southridge honors local veterans

ByMatthew Crane Reading Time: 2 minutes
Southridge Middle and High School students recited the Pledge of Allegiance before Wednesday’s Veterans Day Service.

Southridge High School and Middle School hosted a Veterans Day program on Wednesday.

The student-led ceremony included the recitation of several poems, a brief presentation from U.S. Navy veteran Josh Holmes, an introduction of honored veterans and a 21-gun salute.

Holmes tied experiences and anecdotes from his service to core values that he said carry over into whatever career students decide to pursue. “Sometimes growth begins when we leave what is familiar and take a step into the uncertain,” he told the full auditorium. “Whether your path leads to military service, a trade, a profession, a family, a business, or a home you have not yet discovered, there will be moments when you are asked to step beyond your comfort zone. When those moments come, I hope you will have the humility to learn, the strength to accept responsibility, and the courage to step forward while fear is still present.”

The schools also hosted veterans in the elementary schools.

Veterans saluted as the National Anthem played during the opening of the event.
Each veteran was given a moment to tell the students about their service.
The honor guard performed a 21-gun salute outside the school.
Brycen Baxter, a sophomore, played Taps at the closing of the event.
Students thanked the veterans and asked questions about their service before returning to class. Pictured is U.S. Air Force veteran Arthur Ross.
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