November 9, 2005 2:55 PM
Loudoun celebrates Veterans Day
[Update: Google is directing traffic to this outdated entry. For 2009, click here for information on tonight's celebration at Loudoun Valley High at 7]
Especially for Loudoun veterans and homeschoolers - following is my column in today's Loudoun Times-Mirror:
What? No school holiday on Veterans' Day? For those scratching their heads at Loudoun County Public Schools' unusual policy - are we dissing our vets? - really, the truth is just the opposite.
It was to better honor American veterans that the School Board chose many years ago to make sure students were in school on this important day. So though banks and government offices are closed, mail is not delivered, and many other school districts are shut down, Loudoun schools remain open. Open specifically to ensure that the heritage of Veteran's Day is not lost in another day of shopping and sales. Open to encourage students to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of men and women whose service has made possible the freedoms we enjoy today.
Although it might surprise those who knew me during my radical leftist days, I love this idea! And I'm grateful my kids have had the opportunity for the past three years to experience a moving and thoughtful tribute to those who've been willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for us.
Shortly after my homecoming from 30 years on the Left Coast - dragging 23 native Californians with me - I was reduced to a bowlful of mush at Loudoun Valley High's Veteran's Day program.
I have never missed one since. Once you go, you won't either.
Valley has distinguished itself by the creativity and emotional depth of this carefully planned event - each year a completely new offering of visuals, readings, and musical selections which truly convey the spirit of our country and our commitment to freedom, while honoring community members who've served.
This year's program, "An American Endeavor," features some astonishing footage shot by Mack Brownell, a 1999 Valley graduate now an Army 1st Lieutenant flying a Blackhawk helicopter in Iraq. Mack's connection with his alma mater has been ongoing - with the Loudoun Valley Vets Club sending goodies for him to share with the troops, as well as Beanie Babies and soccer balls which he drops from helicopters over playgrounds and schools.
In addition to a stunning visual program - edited from Mack's videos and still shots by Valley student Russell Osborne - musical selections ranging from "Stars and Stripes Forever," to Michael W. Smith's "There She Stands" will be performed.
A special highlight each year is the Armed Services Salute by the LVHS Band under the direction of Mr. Reeves. As the military theme songs are played, veterans scattered in the audience stand to be recognized for their service in each branch.
The first of two performances is held in the morning at a student assembly. Regrettably, the LVHS auditorium has not kept pace with the growth of the student body. Freshmen - currently attending Harmony - will not be attending. Sophomores will be watching on classroom TVs.
They might enjoy attending the 7 PM performance, which is free and open to the public. I'd like to urge everyone from the community to come and to invite members or former members of the Armed Forces, so they might be honored on Veterans Day.
Special note to the homeschooling community: Please do not let the current adversarial state of affairs with LCPS - which I plan to address sometime soon - keep you away from this rich educational opportunity, which is open to everyone.
Posted in Holidays, Loudoun County | Permalink
Comments
good column!
My son participated in a Veteran's Day program at a local nursing home today (we are not in Loudoun). His teacher located some vintage uniforms from most branches of service; a few boys and girls wore them. My son was very moved by the lone veteran in the nursing home audience who was able to rise, salute and sing along with the students.
God bless America, Land that I love.
Posted by: floorplan | November 9, 2005 6:17 PM
Ooh. Wonderful! I'd love to see more schools do this.
I've linked.
Posted by: Kathryn Judson | November 12, 2005 3:01 PM
