Welcome Home to our Veterans

November 11, 1918 marked the cessation of fighting during World War I.  In 1926, the United States Congress officially recognized November 11^th as a recurring anniversary of the return of our men from Europe.  Today, we know this as Veterans Day.  In part, the resolution states “…a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches…with appropriate ceremonies…” Veterans Day continues to be observed every November 11th and I, for one, hope this is always the case for generations to come. This observance not only preserves the historical significance of November 11th, but it helps focus on the importance of this day.  This is to be a celebration to honor America’s veterans for their love of country, their patriotism, and their willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

We have held Veterans Day celebrations at our school for a long time.  As long as I am Principal, we will continue to do so.  Next Wednesday, we will host the Veterans of the families of our staff and students.  It is an honor to do so.  Five years ago, we celebrated over 50 Veterans by serving them lunch and showing them a staff-made video.  Our kids give them a standing ovation.  I could see the pride in the faces of the kids and adults who introduced their loved ones as Veterans.  There have also been many looks of pride from the Veterans as well.  After the celebration that day, as I was saying my good-byes to the Veterans who attended, one Marine Veteran came up to me and did not shake my hand. Instead, he threw his arms around me and was sobbing. He told me that he had served in Vietnam and his welcome back to our country was less than a joyful memory.  As he walked through the airport terminal in San Francisco, he was called names such as “Baby Killer”. He was spit on. He was jeered. He was not celebrated, thanked nor honored.  I will never forget that moment.  He told me that he had waited 38 years to be welcomed home. He wanted to say thanks for finally providing that. At that point, I joined him in shedding tears at a rapid rate.  We are not waiting any longer to give these brave men and women the welcome home that they deserve.   Next Wednesday afternoon, we will provide a reception line for these folks to walk through with their loved ones leading them out that will span our entire perimeter.  Let’s give them what some of them never received – to be welcomed home like the patriots that they are.

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The Browns play TONIGHT in the “Battle of Ohio” vs. the Cincinnati Bengals on the shores of Lake Erie.  A team with orange helmets will win this one…I am hoping it is the one without a logo.