This morning at 11 a.m., Quitman High School gathered to honor our nation's veterans at the 42nd annual Veterans Day Assembly, hosted by the Student Council. Members from all branches of the military were in attendance.
The ceremony opened with the "Veteran's March" and the posting of the colors by members of Quitman's FFA. Quitman's Head Band Director Michael Barron then played "Taps." QISD substitute teacher, Ms. Vanessa Stanley, sang the National Anthem. After a prayer and opening remarks by High School Principal, Mr. Justin Cowart, the elementary choir sang patriotic songs. Remarks were then offered by student council members Alexis O'Neal and Christian Adamson, and then student council member Sam Yates introduced guest speaker Mr. David Hartsfield.
Mr. Hartsfield served in the Army during the Cold War. He said that he was sometimes asked if one could be a good Christian and do a good job in the military. Mr. Hartsfield said that the answer is yes, but one had to be serious about it. He spoke at length of his faith and fondly recalled being allowed to hold a bible study at night. He also talked about the opportunity he had to continue playing the saxophone while he was in the service; marching in parades and playing at events in his military band. After serving in the army for four years, he decided to use his GI Bill and get a degree and teacher's certification. He later went on to get counselor's certification also.
Mr. Hartsfield thanked everyone for holding this assembly and he said that the best thing a person can do when they see a veteran is to just go say "thank you." He said that those two little words mean a lot to veterans.
After Mr. Hartsfield's speech, Sara Cross and Brooklyn Marcee recognized each of the veterans in attendance. Superintendent Rhonda Turner then offered closing remarks. She thanked each of the veterans for their service and spoke about how much she appreciated all that veterans have done to protect our country.
Members of the FFA then retired the colors. Veterans were then treated to lunch afterwards that was prepared by members of Ms. Rena Brown's culinary classes.