In honor of the upcoming federal holiday on Nov. 11, students and relatives gathered at Grovetown Elementary School to thank and celebrate active duty and retired soldiers in observance of Veterans Day on Thursday, Nov. 9.
Thoroughly decorated with handmade stars, flags, thank you letters and other themed artwork, Grovetown Elementary School students showcased their appreciation for veterans before enjoying a observance break on Friday, Nov. 10.
Starting the ceremony off with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a live performance of the National Anthem, parents, grandparents and siblings lined the cafeteria of the school wearing red, white, blue and camouflage while waving small American flags in united bliss.
“Now that our students have a day off in observance of Veterans Day, it is extremely important that we teach them the reason behind the holiday and the purpose that it serves,” said Principal Valerie Allen.
Following inspiring words from parent and veteran Kevin DeRamus, event performances included vocal musical selections from the school’s fourth grade choir and themed dance routines from the Step Team.
From his own time in the U.S. Army, DeRamus shared with students how his time in the military taught him the importance of constantly trying to improve one’s self in addition to always striving to do one’s best, even in times of hardship.
“I hope [students] get inspired to take control of their own lives in the future and to reach their fullest potential,” said DeRamus. “People weren’t always allowed to reach their full potential and – in my opinion – we’d be a lot further if every child in our country was allowed to reach his or her fullest potential. That’s what I want to inspire.”
Through DeRamus’ powerful story of overcoming self doubt, Allen said she hopes the event teaches students the strong endurance it sometimes takes to overcome life obstacles.
“It’s very important for our students to know, when they face a challenge, they can be optimistic and can motivate themselves to get through that challenge,” she said. “So, having a growth mindset will set them up for success in life.”
As a dedicated and heavily involved father, DeRamus said he believes the holiday and school event allows families and teachers to educate students about the many sacrifices veterans and their families make in service to their country.
“It just allows them to understand what their parents had to give up in order for them to have the lives that they have … it’s a huge sacrifice for families,” he said.
Fellow parent and attending active duty recruiter for the U.S. Armed Forces, Farrakahan Ameen, said he thoroughly enjoyed the student presentations and thought the event was “wonderful.”
“For the ones that came before me, this is awesome,” he said. “It’s important that [students] don’t take life for granted and that throughout life everything comes with a price. People actually fought for them to be able to enjoy the freedom that they have today.”
While students waited in anticipation to receive celebratory cupcakes after witnessing their peers perform for attending veterans and active duty soldiers, the event ended with a U.S. Armed Forces medley of songs to honor the different military branches.
“I liked it all, but the national anthem always gives me chills,” said Ameen.
In observance of Veterans Day, all Columbia County Schools will be closed on Friday, Nov. 10.
