On Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2024, I attended a veteran’s breakfast provided by the Hollidaysburg Area Junior High staff and students.

Students greeted and signed-in veterans as they arrived and were escorted and seated in the school cafeteria. The students were well-dressed and expressed their gratitude during the entire event.

At the table was a “Welcome Veterans!” program and a personal “Happy Veterans Day” letter thanking each one for their service. Thank You, “Bailey” for mine.

While waiting for the opening remarks, veterans met and talked like we knew each other forever, although for some it was their first experience. Gone were the days of discussing which military branch performed better. We all took an oath to defend and serve.

After Principal Mr. Dale McCall welcomed everyone, two Boy Scouts from Troop 3032 presented the American Flag and we Pledged the Allegiance of the United States, followed by a minute of silence.

Immediately, the National Junior Honor Society Students were hustling and serving tables while checking for refills. During our breakfast, we were entertained by the Hollidaysburg Area Junior High School Chamber Orchestra, the ninth grade chorus and the ninth grade jazz band. Their performance brought tears to some of the veterans.

Toward the end, student presentations by NJHS officers, Sydney Hinish, president, Lainey Williams, vice president, and Abigail Hovance, secretary, vocally expressed their appreciation to the men and women who made the sacrifice. Principal McCall dismissed the attendees and thanked them for attending.

Don Martin,

U.S. Army Veteran

Roaring Spring