St. John Veterans Program 2024

Last Friday, area veterans and their families were invited for one more annual salute to their service from area schoolchildren in Maribel. That morning, St. John Lutheran School hosted their annual Veterans Day Program featuring presentations, prayer and patriotic music. The Denmark News was in attendance to learn more.

At 10:30 a.m., area veterans and their families joined with the St. John students and staff in the school's gymnasium for this year's program. Pastor William Harley, who served as the event's emcee, welcomed all and expressed his deep gratitude for and respect toward all those who have served. The Color Guard, consisting of members of the Denmark VFW and American Legion, then processed the flags of the nation, state and various service branches while the National Anthem was performed on the piano.

Next, the student body performed a variety of patriotic songs including "God Bless America", "America the Beautiful" and "Thank You Soldiers". Next, two members of the Two Rivers VFW demonstrated how to properly fold an American flag while another read the significant symbolism behind each of the 13 folds involved. Pastor Harley then explained the significance of the "Fallen Soldiers Table" which remained vacant and bore a number of symbolic items meant to demonstrate the meaning and importance of their sacrifice.

Next, St. John Principal Phil Hochmuth introduced this year's "Patriots Pen" Essay Contest whose theme was "My Voice in American Democracy" before having the four winners read their submissions. Once the essays had concluded, Pastor Harley thanked all the staff and volunteers who made the program possible and led a prayer before inviting all to enjoy a complimentary lunch.