"How will you serve your community?"
On this Veterans Day, this was the challenge shared with students at Starkville High School during the annual Veterans Day program planned and hosted by the SHS JROTC Battalion. The student-led program honored veterans from all branches of the military, including current and former Yellow Jacket staff members and community guests.
During the program, the flags of each military branch were presented, and visitors enjoyed patriotic musical selections from the SHS Singers and SHS Band, including the playing of each branch's anthem. The JROTC Battalion performed a marching drill, and the event included a moving "white table" ceremony honoring and remembering POW and MIA soldiers.
In addition, Pastor James Triplet, also a US Army veteran, spoke to students about his experience. With an emphasis on service, he encouraged students to think about how they could server both their community and their best selves – whether as part of the military or not.
Captain Tony Lathon, commander and advisor to the SHS JRTOC program finished out the program by highlighting the work student cadets put into organizing the event, and members presented veterans who attended with a gift.
