The Benjamin Logan High School Student Government and FCCLA members put a unique twist on the Annual Veterans Day Breakfast and Ceremony Wednesday.
The program is typically hosted in the high school commons and gymnasium, but due to COVID restrictions and the priority to keep students, staff, and veterans safe, the event was transformed to a drive-in breakfast with the program pre-recorded so the broadcast that was played on the radio.
As many as 50 vehicles with veterans and family members parked in the bus circle at Benjamin Logan schools, while Student Government and FCCLA members served them breakfast and delivered decorated gift bags filled with patriotic handmade drink cup koozies and other sweet treats prepared by FCCLA members.
The veterans also received letters written by third- and fourth-grade students. The Student Government also will be presenting checks to the local American Legion Posts to support veterans as needed.
The BLHS Marching Band and Choir performed commemorative music such as the National Anthem, My Country, ‘Tis of Thee, the Armed Forces Salute, and Taps for all of Logan County to hear via the radio broadcast. Students also read poems to explain why it is so important to remember and recognize Veterans Day.
“I was absolutely blown away by the preparation, delivery, and impact that it had on our veterans. I suspect it had an equal impact on our students,” BLHS Principal Brian Powderly said.
“I have been involved over the years in a number of Veterans Day programs, and must say that despite the Covid-19 restrictions we had to work with, this program today was very special and so impressive,” Superintendent John Scheu said.
“One veteran, Bob Davis, showed me a letter an elementary student had sent him and had me read the letter. The student included a sentence saying he would probably never hear back from this veteran, but wanted him to know how much he appreciated what he had done serving in the military. Bob of course did write the student back and there were several other veterans that showed me the letters from students. It definitely meant a lot to them.”
Powderly also related that his father was a career Air Force NCO and Vietnam veteran, whom his family laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery three years ago this October.
“I only share this as I know that my father and many, many others never saw or received anything like this celebration of service. Many experienced the polar opposite. This, among many other reasons, makes today that much more special and unique. Being able to join you in serving our veterans was deeply appreciated not only by our vets, but by me as well.”