Miller Heights ES Principal Deborah Roeder welcomed dozens of veterans to the school’s 18th annual Veterans Day program Nov. 8, noting the importance of honoring and recognizing their service and sacrifices.

Students sang patriotic songs, read inspirational messages and were joined by the Freedom HS Women’s Choir and Patriot Band Fife and Drum Corps.

Fifth grade students in Boy Scout Troop 346 and Girl Scout Troop 8373 presented the colors during a procession into the gymnasium, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Veterans in attendance were given a red carnation upon their arrival and recognized by service branch during the ‘Armed Forces Medley.’ Many had served as far back as the Vietnam War.

Students presented letters they had written to soldiers, and to Gina Ray, the wife of Thomas Ray who is currently deployed overseas.

Refreshments were served upon completion of the program, after fourth grade teacher Louis Poczak concluded it by playing ‘Taps.”