HUNTINGDON, Tenn. — Local Veterans packed the gym for Huntingdon Primary School’s annual Veteran’s Day program on Wednesday.
Students paid tribute to those who served in the armed forces, sang patriotic tunes, and heard remarks from two Air Force veterans.
Primary School Principal Vicki Crossno opened the program with words of appreciation toward veterans.
“Today, but not only today, do we say ‘thank you’,” she said. “We are all indebted at a price we can never repay. It’s because of you that we have our freedoms today.”
Members of Cub Scout Pack 73 presented the colors and the room recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Veterans in the audience stood as they heard their respective branch’s theme during the “Armed Forces Medley”.
Throughout the program, third grade students on stage sang various songs, including “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “Fifty Nifty United States” and “I Love My Country.”
Students also read tributes explaining what a veteran is and thanking those who have served.
Adam and Dayle Mathis were the guest speakers, and were introduced by their daughter, Daphne.
Dayle Mathis served as a staff sergeant in the Air Force from 2004 to 2010. Adam Mathis served as a technical sergeant from 2005 to 2013. Both worked as Arabic linguists in intelligence, supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Adam Mathis challenged students to thank veterans through their actions by living out the values service members share. Those values are showing respect, having the courage to do what’s right and giving their best effort.
“It’s easy to do the right thing when somebody’s watching you,” he said. “It’s harder to do the right thing when nobody else is around.”
Dayle Mathis encouraged students to embrace challenges, even when they feel nervous. She shared advice from her basic training instructor: “The quickest way out is through.”
“Be willing to try, be willing to learn, be willing to show up and serve something bigger than yourself,” she said.
After the program, veterans were invited to take pictures with their students.
