CHHS students honor local

veterans with special program

By MICHELLE J. WILSON

Students at Charles Henderson High School celebrated contributions of area members of the armed forces Wednesday at a Veterans’ Day Program.

The 9:30 a.m. assembly was sponsored by the high school’s JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp), said Rick Stetson, CHHS guidance counselor. The program featured the JROTC Color Guard and CHHS band.

Three students read essays on Veterans’ Day. They were selected to speak as winners of an essay competition held among the school’s senior English classes, Stetson said.

Joey Hollis won first place, Aaron Rascoe placed second and Beth Stewart won third place.

"They wrote essays describing what Veterans’ Day means to them and won cash prizes," he said. "This is the first time in several years that we’ve done this.

"The goal of the program was to instill patriotism and make the students aware of the sacrifices made by veterans."

After the readings, JROTC students displayed a series of flags showing the evolution of the American Flag.

The school gave a special salute to faculty members who have served in the armed forces, including Sgt. Tyrone Black, Army; CMSgt. Allen Carlton, Air Force Retired; Major Richard Jordan, Army Retired; LT. Glenda Kelley, Army Reserve; Petty Officer 3rd Class Wayne Locklar, Navy; ISG Wanda Russell, Army Retired; LTC Rick Stetson, Alabama National Guard’ and ISG Michael Thomas, Alabama National Guard Band.

"We are very proud of our staff members who have military backgrounds," Stetson said. "Overall, I think the program was educational to our students."