BRS Veterans Day Assembly celebrates past and current soldiers

Veterans Day is a time for appreciation and recognition – a day where people can truly be thankful for those who have served. And that’s precisely why Beaverton Rural Schools held a Veterans Day assembly on Monday.

Music was at the center of numerous activities at the assembly, which included students in grades K-12. The Beaverton band and choir performed patriotic songs. Fifth- and sixth-grade students did a military-style sound-off, and elementary students sang songs they had practiced with music teacher Seanne Danielak.

Everyone in the packed gym stood at full attention for the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem and the flag folding ceremony that concluded the event. Students of all ages seemed to understand the gravity of the event, showing proper respect to the veterans in observance of the solemn day.

Featured speaker Master Sgt. Dustin Hemmingway told the story of a boy named Sidney Lewis who enlisted in World War I at just twelve years old.

“I want to be like Sidney,”Hemmingway said. “I think I’ve always wanted to be like Sidney.”

He emphasized the importance of always helping people who need it.

“Be of service to all creatures – your family, your friends, your community,” Hemmingway said. “And when people thank me for my service, it reminds me that I’m a server at heart.”

Even though there hasn’t been a Veterans Day assembly at the school in recent years, those in attendance thought it was an impressive event.

“It means a lot to be honored,” said Vietnam veteran Allen Grove. “They had a good program and I’m proud of it.”

U.S. Marine Chris Downes had a similar opinion.

“It was nice to see everyone show their support for us and come together as a community, even those that aren’t from Beaverton,” Downes said. “They did a good job honoring us.”

Current and past military members weren’t the only people who enjoyed the event. Ryan Diamond, a BJSHS senior who is currently enlisted in the Army National Guard, had only positive things to say about the assembly.

“It’s nice to see how people react and appreciate the men and women who put their lives on the line for this amazing country,” said Diamond. “It’s a sneak peek to how people will treat me when I’m in the service.”