Legionnaires from St. Augusta, Clearwater and Clear Lake were among the veterans honored Monday during Clearview Elementary’s annual Veterans Day program, with students, community members, Clearwater Mayor Pete Edmonson and Clear Lake Mayor Tim Goenner in attendance.

 

After being welcomed by Principal Sheri Rutar, Clearview’s Boy and Girl Scouts helped the Legionnaires post the colors and, led by Clear Lake Legionnaire Bud Stimmler, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

 

“This is a day to appreciate and celebrate the men and women dedicated to the safety and prosperity of our country,” said fifth-grade teacher Andrea Coulter, who, along with Profesora Jourdan Coliman, emceed this year’s program. 

 

“Clearview is committed to making our younger generation aware of the sacrifices you’ve made. Thank you for our freedom and the opportunity to attend our great school.”

 

Students took turns explaining the Pledge of Allegiance and the meaning of the nation’s flag, as well as reciting A Very Long Time, which focuses on the families who support their vets and wait for them to return home.

 

Senior Master Sergeant Jim Fraser explained the significance of “the table set for one,” explaining what each item stands for, and a moment of silence was observed for the country’s POWs and MIAs. 

 

“A veteran is only truly missing if he’s been forgotten,” said Fraser. “We will not forget.”

 

Throughout the program a number of patriotic songs were sung, including The Star-Spangled Banner, America the Beautiful, which students sang along to in sign language, You’re a Grand Old Flag, Proud to be an American and This Land is Your Land. Accompanied by Amity Andrea Priego Mora, a group of students performed America for attendees.

 

The program concluded with an explanation of Taps and Tech High School student Josie Green playing the haunting song on the trumpet while attending veterans saluted the flag. The Legionnaires then Retired the Colors and paraded solemnly out of the gym to the waiting reception area, where refreshments and gifts from the students were waiting for them.

 

Clearview holds their Veteran’s Day ceremony each year to thank and honor local veterans and to help ensure students are aware of the people who have sacrificed for their country. A memorial honoring U.S. military veterans is located in front of the school.