On November 11, 1921, an American soldier whose name is unknown received an honorable burial at the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. This ceremony became known as Armistice Day. Twelve years later, Armistice Day became a national holiday that was meant to signify that World War I would be the war to end all wars. Although this was not the case, honor for our nation’s veterans is still displayed on this day.

To this day, Americans from across the nation observe Veterans Day and show the millions of courageous service men and women their appreciation and gratitude for their active duty. Without them, it would be next to impossible to keep the United States of America the “land of the free and home of the brave.”

The Shorewood Intermediate School and both elementary schools in our district take a small portion of their time on Veterans Day to honor the men and women who have served our country. Students and staff gather to observe an educational assembly presented by intermediate school staff member Jan Zehren. The heartfelt presentation informs the audience of the importance of the holiday and teaches proper protocol for things such as how to honor the American flag.

As a middle school student, I remember sitting through the assemblies and being enriched and touched by the United States’ history. It was at these assemblies where I recognized my true appreciation for our veterans. 

I feel that it would be greatly appreciated if the high school administration would add a Veteran’s Day assembly to their agenda for next school year. The assembly would give people the opportunity for offering their gratitude for the men and women who so greatly deserve it. The presentation of our appreciation on this one day a year is the least that we can do for those who risked everything for our protection and freedom.