In their honor

Fifth-grade students at East Side Elementary sang Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the U.S.A.," and brought tears to the eyes of many members of the audience Wednesday during their Veterans Day Program. [Order this photo]

Students and teachers throughout the Clay Community School Corporation took time out of their regular classroom activities to pay a special tribute to the men and women who have served in the United States military.

At North Clay Middle School, students and faculty gave a standing ovation to veterans as they entered the gym and again when the students were recognized with family members currently serving in the military.

"I was most impressed with the recognition of the children with family deployed," 181st Operations Support Squadron Assistant Director of Operations for the United States Air Force Rick Wood said. "It is good to involve kids in a Veterans Day program."

Wood was the guest speaker at North Clay and he said it is easier to brief his superiors than talk to the students.

"Trying to relate to young minds the importance of recognizing veterans and those currently serving is important," he said.

While speaking with students, he asked for the continued support for the families that have loved ones currently deployed.

"Honor these young men and women," he said. "Respect them and their sacrifices. Honor and respect all veterans who have come before us and those who will come after us."

There wasn't a dry eye to be found at East Side Elementary, as fifth-grade students read the history of Veterans Day to fellow students and parents, then read the names of family members and friends who served.

Floy Galbraith rang a bell after each name and a moment of silence was taken. Students then sang to Lee Greenwood's, "God Bless the U.S.A."

Students and guests at Staunton Elementary experienced a special performance from the Jackson Township Community Band, under the direction of Matthew Huber. Students listened attentively as parents tapped there feet in beat to the music.

"We wanted to do something the younger students would enjoy," teacher Denise Brush said.

"It was very successful, it was new and different," teacher Marci Nussel added. "Everyone enjoyed the program."

The audience learned a brief history about each of the songs and the writers. John Philip Sousa, Frank Meacham, Fred Jewell, Henry Fillmore, Edwards Everett Bagley and Marvin Workman wrote the songs.

Each program was different but each held the same message.

"There is less than one percent who serve," Wood said. "There is no stronger sign of respect for the veterans past, present and future than to honor the American flag."