A formal ceremony recognizing the contributions of American veterans occurred Nov. 5 at Templeton Middle School. Special recognition of Templeton alumnus Lance Corporal Michael J. Ludin was a highlight of the event. Ludin was awarded the Bronze Start in September for his actions in Iraq.
Veteran Scott Olsen provided the Veterans’ Address. A ceremonial color guard posted and retired the colors, and LeRoy Eichhorst, a member of the Horne-Mudlitz VFW, laid wreaths to honor soldiers who became prisoners of war or missing in action.
Students honored the country’s veterans during the ceremony as well.
- The Student Council led the “Pledge of Allegiance.”
- The Seventh Grade Chorus and Eighth Grade Band performed “The National Anthem” and “God Bless America.” Choir members also recognized veterans with an Armed Forces Salute and a musical tribute.
- The winning essays of Erin Welcenbach and Betty Liang were read. Their essays were chosen in the VFW Auxiliary Essay Contest whose theme was “What Service to Our Country Means to Me.”
- Alexander Stuth and Mark Slinde performed “Taps.”
Music teacher Jaye Mier coordinated a video production that features photos of military personnel and veterans who are related to Templeton students. The video was shown during the ceremony and will play continuously in the school lobby. Following the program, honored veterans were invited to participate in a light reception.
Earlier in the week, students shared lunch and talked with veterans Alex Kolander, Chuck Eberhardt and LeRoy Eichhorst.