Veteran’s Day is not just another day at ADM Middle School. Our observance of Veteran’s Day on November 10th was truly a day to remember. Students were joined by 40 veterans from 5 different branches (Coast Guard, Navy, Army, Marines and Air Force), who served in 6 different wars or conflicts. Our community is well represented in the armed forces, to say the least!
To set the tone for the day we all participated in a flag raising ceremony. For the rest of the morning students rotated from classroom to classroom hearing from men and women who have served. The stories that were shared were incredible and the questions which students had answered about various times in our history truly brought those times and events to life.
During a late morning assembly all veterans present were recognized by branch on the auditorium stage and quilts of valor were presented. These quilts were hand-made by Pat Melroy and Laura Brenner and presented to Joshua Jorgensen and Bill Sandquist. In addition our very own middle school choirs lead the singing of our National Anthem.
To finish the day students rotated through a variety of stations. In one station, students composed thank you letters to active service members and also those veterans who joined us for the day. In another station students packed socks to send to homeless veterans in the Des Moines area. Over 1000 pairs of socks were donated and packed, along with 30 gifts cards. Finally, students were able to peruse a tremendous display of artifacts set up in the media center! All of the days activities can be seen below!
Thanks to all of those who worked to make this day happen both in donations and in planning. These things cannot happen without your support. Finally, thank you to those who served and continue to serve our country. We cannot fully express our gratitude for your selflessness and sacrifice.