Fuqua hosts program to thank veterans

Published 7:27 am Monday, December 7, 2015

On a fall day, Fuqua School hosted a Veterans Day service to thank, appreciate and remember military veterans.

The event was held at Crute Stage in downtown Farmville, and the community was invited and encouraged to join the remembrance.

“The primary reason that our Veterans Day program was established was to honor veterans for their service. Moving the program to the Crute Stage made the opportunity more accessible and open to everyone in our community. The secondary purpose of the program is to give our students an appreciation and understanding of what the members of our military have done for our country and the sacrifices that they have made,” said Camille Rabon, Fuqua School band director and Veterans Day program coordinator.

During the service, middle school and senior bands played patriotic music, Eagle and Boy Scouts formed the Honor Guard and led the pledge, eighth-grade student Kaitlyn Morgan sang the national anthem, student government leaders welcomed, introduced and narrated throughout the program, and Head of School John Melton closed the day with the benediction.

Amy Nicole Morgan, SFC (Ret) United States Army, was the keynote speaker for the event, sharing a very powerful message.

“When today is over, and the flags gracing houses, streets and businesses are removed, we need to ask ourselves what more can we do to honor our veterans and their legacy.

“What more can we do to honor their sacrifices? Each one of us has both the power and obligation to do more for our veterans and their families. I ask you to please keep these men and women in your hearts today and to remember every day the serious emotional and physical challenges veterans face when they come home from service. Though some wounds are easily seen, there are many more that are unseen and often times unheard.

“Whether the veterans served a few years or until retirement, in combat or peacetime, our liberties and values stand safe today because of the brave men and women who have been ready to face the fire and serve a cause greater than themselves.

“All gave some, some gave all.  More than mere words, this is a truth that our veterans carry in their hearts for the rest of their lives.”

The day was marked in classrooms school-wide as well, as veterans spent time with students, answering questions and welcoming the opportunity to talk about what service means to them and what students can do now to serve our country.