Woolridge Elementary School's Salute to Veterans

“Color guard, post colors,” ordered Lindsey Romig, the fourth grader who served as narrator for Woolridge Elementary School’s 21st annual Veterans Day Program.

As the student color guard marched toward the stage through an assembly of parents and visitors, the cadre of veterans invited to attend the event stood at attention and gave a strong, sharp salute to the American flag. The unit, represented by both Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, stood proud, too. After the presentation of colors, Romig led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.

“You’ll stand a little taller today,” said Principal June Edwards, “Today we honor all who have served."

For the past 21 years, Woolridge Elementary has hosted a Veterans Day program that focuses on the experience and dedication of the nation's military servicemen and women. This year’s meaningful event underscored the sacrifices that veterans have made throughout the country's history.

Known in the United States as “Armistice Day” until 1938, Veterans Day is now observed worldwide as the anniversary of the end of World War I, an international day of peace. In Virginia, fourth-grade students learn Virginia history and are taught about the nation's principles and freedoms.

Standing side by side, under a United States flag, the fourth-grade classes jointly sang “This is America”. Then, selected students read from their essays which described what Veterans Day is, who is a veteran, how Veterans Day is celebrated and what Veterans Day means to Americans.

Individual servicemen and woman, retired veterans and active duty military personnel, introduced themselves and shared their stories of enlistment, leadership and service. Colonels sat next to midshipman who sat next to helicopter pilots who sat next to maintenance technicians, et al.

“I’ve had the opportunity of serving this great country of ours for approximately 26 years. And although I’m in the sunset of my career, I’m hopeful for the sunrise of the next generation,” said Navy officer Ferguson, who was invited by his grandson, Carter. He said, “I’ve been in such “garden spots” as Somalia, Jordan and Iraq, but it was a pleasure to serve. As Americans, we don’t appreciate the freedoms that we have until we travel abroad.”

There were veterans present who served in all branches of the military, including the U.S. Army Reserve, and National Guard. There was a battalion commander in attendance and a Korean Medal of Freedom recipient. But, there was one person who was not in attendance who sent a special message to his son, Sean, through his wife Jessica Duncan, via e-mail, which was read aloud.

“Today we’ve witnessed a living history museum,” Edwards said.

Veterans from the modern age conflicts were recognized with a medley of songs saluting the Armed Forces beginning with “We Love the U.S.A.” Each veteran stood to their military branch fight song.

A quiet tribute, dedicated to those who gave their lives for our country, was commemorated with a moment of silence. Retired Chesterfield County Public Schools band director Bill Buck rendered “Taps”, as the audience stood in reverence.

After the morning program, guests including Dr. Marcus Newsome, Chesterfield County Public Schools Superintendant, and school board member, Omarh Rajah, were encouraged to tour the building. Visitors had the opportunity to see how artwork was integrated into lessons through self-portraits and interpretations of the U.S. flag. The “hall of honor”, in the fourth grade wing, displayed essays and other creative forms of expression.

The honorees were invited to a luncheon in the library where it was patriotically-decorated in red, white and blue bunting, and sponsored by local businesses.