Home of the Brave

Andrew awoke the morning of the 11th and dressed himself in full camouflage…this wasn’t a Halloween re-run, this was an important day and he wanted to look his best; from hat, to belt, to pants to shirt, even his boxers carried a camo design. He had won a camouflage dog tag necklace at the Carnival that went over his head as the final accessory. Mrs. Bidiman had asked Andrew to prepare a few words about Veterans Day for today’s assembly. This was request was prompted by Andrew’s consistent interest in checking out library books focused on the armed forces. He prepared a small speech at school and was given overnight homework to practice. Practice he did, numerous times and we refined the process by me standing in the bathroom and he standing in the bedroom. His job was to make sure I could understand every word he said. This was an ideal method to get him to project his voice, slow down his pace and articulate his words.

They had asked me to sing the National Anthem. I arrived early dressed in my patriotic best….the red suit. I briefly tested out the acoustics; no microphone would be needed and I strategically placed my pitch finder (Andrew’s xylophone) on the podium shelf. Then, I appointed myself the official greeter and program passer-outer. It was a joy to personally meet and talk with the handful of Veterans that joined us.

Andrew walked in the opening procession of the Boys Scouts Color Guard. Once the flag was in place, we all said the Pledge of Allegiance…in English and in Tlinit. Next on the program was the Star Spangled Banner. I filled the gymnasium with the glorious melody and message of our country’s humble beginnings. I adore that song. Kindergarteners through Second grader donning red, white and blue hand painted hats, stood and cherubically sang “America the Beautiful.” It was now time for Mrs. Bidiman’s class to present their writings. Andrew, along with three other class mates took turns at the podium. He did an awesome job! His voice was confident, clear and intelligible. He spoke of Grandpa playing the trumpet in the Army band during WW II, how the President places a wreath at Arlington cemetery on this day and the symbolism of taking a moment of silence to remember those who served. I know I am a proud mama, but he was the only one, aside for the guest speaker that the audience could understand.

The guest speaker was Rich Jennings from the Forest Service. He served in the Air Force for five years. This is the same gentleman that is working with Steve on the renewable energy project. He did a nice job giving an age-appropriate presentation. It was simply spoken, interactive, informative and emphasized the ideal that, the those in the armed forces don’t glorify war or fighting, but believe the best way to avoid war is a good defense. After his talk, Bob Hutton, the music teacher, play director and guy who took Steve and Andrew Halibut fishing, played Taps on his trombone. The rich sound resonated throughout the gym. It was a touching and emotional end to the program honoring these brave Veterans.

The Colors were retired, the students filed into the cafeteria and the gentleman, with their wives were invited to have lunch with the children. I stayed to lunch with Andrew, munching on Indian Tacos, carrot sticks and chugging chocolate milk…somehow trying to make the meaningful events of the morning last a little bit longer.