November 10, 2008 1:39 PM
Loudoun Veterans Day Celebration - November 11
[Update: Google is directing traffic to this outdated entry.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]
What? No school holiday on Veterans' Day? For those who've every wondered about 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 anyone 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 in 2002.
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.
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.
Now in its ninth year, this year's program, "Branches Come Together" will honor all branches of our outstanding military in music, song and poetry. 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.
Refreshments after the evening performance/
Special note to the homeschooling community: This is a rich educational great opportunity for families. I hope to see many of you there!
Two other LVHS Veterans items bringing honor to veterans living and passed away:
Flags to honor or Remember our servicemenWe have received a large donation of American Flags. As a special addition to our annual Veterans Day program, we are inviting members of our community to Plant a Flag in honor or memory of military personnel. We have a special place on our campus where these flags will placed.
Anyone wishing to place a flag is invited to Loudoun Valley High School on November 10th during school hours or prior to the morning performance on the 11th. .
Please report to the main office to receive the flag and register the name of serviceman or woman.For further info
Contact : Veterans Club advisors or
Marty Potts
Mpotts1@loudoun.k12.va.us
School 540-751-2400
Supplies for our troopsThe Loudoun Valley Veterans Club has started its annual collection of supplies for our troops. Donations will be accepted through December 6th. We encourage the student body and the community to share in this venture. For more information call Loudoun Valley High School at 540-751-2400
Posted in Loudoun County, Veterans Day | Permalink
Comments
Our town has a nice Veteran's Day Ceremony. My homeschool children's choir will be singing there tomorrow.
Posted by: Kathy | November 10, 2008 2:44 PM
My kids will be in school tomorrow also, Shenandoah County schools are not on a holiday tomorrow. They had a veterans breakfast on Saturday morning. The kids were supposed to bring a veteran with them to celebrate the sacrifice they have given. It's a wonderful way to celebrate Veterans Day.
Posted by: Bridget | November 10, 2008 3:14 PM
You know, I was just talking to my husband the other day and I don't remember EVER having veterans day off. I was surprised when we drove past our local elementary school and it said they would not have school that day.
Posted by: Jen K. | November 11, 2008 7:07 AM
I so wanted to take the kids downtown to the Veterans parade, but it was pouring. I hope to do this next year. I wanted them to see the flags. They are REALLY into flags and point at the all the time. It makes me realize how free we are.
Posted by: Shannon Best | November 12, 2008 3:15 PM
