By Linda White
There was a sense of mutual admiration, respect and joy as Principal Rob Ackerman welcomed more than 30 veterans, their families, and 600 Lane School students to the third annual Lane School Celebration of Veterans on November 10. The audience was a sea of red, white and blue as each of the students enthusiastically waved their small American flag throughout the ceremony.
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Veterans, some in full uniform and many wearing caps signifying their service, mingled with families over coffee and pastries in the cafeteria, exchanging greetings and memories of their service.
After passing under a red, white, and blue balloon archway, each Veteran was individually introduced by Principal Ackerman. They made their way down the central aisle to loud and sustained applause and were escorted to their seats by a Lane student, often a member of the Veteran’s family.
In his opening remarks, Principal Rob Ackerman reminded students that the next day, Veterans Day, wasn’t just a day off from school, but an opportunity to celebrate heroes, past and present. And to honor those who were visiting the school that morning.
Bedford’s police and fire departments sent their honor guards, the BHS junior ROTC’s color guard presided over the assembl, and three of their number performed a formal flag ceremony. Master Sargent Charlie Humphrey (ret), one of BHS ROTC teachers and a cousin of assistant principal Keith Kinney, gave the keynote address.
Visiting from BHS, Jayden Heller sang the Star Spangled Banner and trumpeter Connor O’Toole played the military classic To the Color. Lane School’s Grade 5 chorus sang (a cappella!) America the Beautiful.
Veterans representing all branches of the service were in attendance, including one Vietnam War grandfather, proudly wearing a cap emblazoned with his status as a Purple Heart recipient, who drove from Missouri to Bedford to take part in the ceremony with his granddaughter.
The students returned to their classrooms with cheers for the Veterans and appreciation for the love they have shown for our country.
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