Central Elementary School held its annual Veterans Day program on Friday, November 8, attended by numerous local veterans and current military members. The event began with the Presentation of Colors by cadets from the Youth Challenge Program at Camp Minden, followed by the National Anthem.
Preslee Coe led the Pledge of Allegiance, Cooper Branch recited the Dragon Pledge, and Zaidyn Arrington delivered the opening prayer. Principal Mr. Lee recognized service members present, and attendees enjoyed a medley of Armed Forces anthems.
The program featured fifth grade essay contest winner Toni Tomlinson, who shared her essay detailing how she and her family honor veterans on Veterans Day.
Guest speaker Jerry Madden discussed the history and proper treatment of the American flag. Madden highlighted that he and his wife, Cindy, maintain a flag depository at their Minden residence for the respectful disposal of worn flags. “The flag represents our men and women in the military,” Madden said. “This flag means so much to our veterans.” To date, the Maddens have collected 126 flags for proper disposal.
With assistance from students, Madden presented the six Armed Forces flags, including the recently established Space Force flag, in service since 2019.
The program concluded with second grade students performing “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” after which veterans and parents were invited to enjoy cake and punch.
