DECATUR — Students, teachers, parents and honored guests from across the nation gathered in school gyms and auditoriums Nov. 10 to pay tribute to the countless military veterans who served in defense of the freedoms we, as Americans, enjoy today. Two local schools joined with others across Northwest Arkansas to honor local veterans whose services spanned five major conflicts (World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom) and a host of smaller scrimmages.
Students from the middle and high schools in Decatur gathered in Peterson Gym to listen to patriotic music, receive history lessons, watch a video and hear from a genuine war hero during the third annual Decatur High School Veterans Day Celebration. Toby Conrad, high school principal and event founder, served as master of ceremonies.
President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 Armistice Day in 1919 as a way to remember all who perished during World War I. In 1954, the name was changed from Armistice Day to Veterans Day to reflect a new mission, to remember all who served and continue to serve in this country's military.
Seated in a place of honor were nine members of Decatur's Howard-Parrish Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9834 and American Legion Post 29 from Siloam Springs. Presenting the Colors were post members Mike Carnahan and Terry Faddis.
Students were treated to patriotic music by Decatur High School band and choir and by the Northeastern Oklahoma A&M choir from Tahlequah, Okla.
After the high school choir performed the great American standard, "God Bless America," Bethany Roberson, a Decatur resident and Gentry High School sophomore, presented a research paper on the origins of this holiday and how it has evolved over the years.
A tradition that began during last year's assembly was a reading of famed 1960s comedian Red Skelton's "Pledge of Allegiance" which premiered Jan. 14, 1969, during the Red Skelton Hour. It so touched the hearts of Americans across the nation that it was read twice into the congressional records. Reciting this memorable skit was Sheldon McKinzie, high school history teacher, himself a decorated member of the United States Air Force.
The guest speaker was Guy Pouvele, a 23-year veteran of the United States Marine Corp and Purple Heart recipient. Pouvele talked about his experiences in the military and how it is important that we, as Americans, remember the many sacrifices made in defense of freedom.
When asked, "Is there anything else that you wish to say in your introduction?" Pouvele replied proudly, "I am a proud American and there is nothing more to say."
The NEO choir closed the proceedings with a medley of American service anthems, which included the hymns of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard. As each was performed, the veterans who served in that branch stood and were recognized.
After the event, students, teachers and guests were able to meet each veteran and thank them for their service to this country. Then the veterans were treated to a home-cooked meal prepared by the Decatur Home Economics Department.
General News on 11/15/2017