Today we had an amazing opportunity to celebrate the men and women who defend our freedoms and keep us safe - our Veterans! MPHS students and staff are so thankful for the dedicated service members of the armed forces who have made it possible for us to enjoy the everyday moments and things of this life that we too often take for granted.
MPHS held an assembly to honor our Veterans today. We specifically celebrated the service of three Topper alumni who are currently serving in the military. We celebrated 2005 graduates Justin Milner, Korey Letterle, and Vance Knauer. As a special treat, Vance was able to join us in person to offer some words of wisdom to the audience.
In addition, students were recognized for participating in the Voice of Democracy essay contest. Grace Davis's winning essay - titled "Why is the Veteran Important? - was read by the author at the assembly.
The audience also enjoyed musical selections played by the high school and 7th/8th grade band. Our band director, Mr. Pluhm, closed out the service playing taps on the trumpet. Local Scouts Troop 122 members - David Ruhl, Juan Andrade, Owen Pulliam, and Hayden Morris - presented and retired our Nation's colors for the assembly.
We would like to thank the families of Justin Milner, Korey Letterle, and Vance Knauer, for joining us and for participating in the assembly by introducing their family member. Also, special thanks to the planning committee for organizing this event. The committee included the following staff members: Gale Clark, Sarah Cooper, Michael Copley, Rachel Grunder, Sarah Lambert, Robert Meyerriecks, and Amanda Scattergood. Thank you to Troop 122, Pamela Erlenbush, and Greg Maus for coordination of the flag ceremonies. Thank you to our custodian, Alvin Gilbert, for preparation of the gym for the ceremony. Thank you to all of the students who helped with set-up and tear-down for the event.
Introductory videos were compiled by Mr. Siebert to show during the ceremony. Thanks to Mr. Siebert for all of his work and dedication to this project. The introductory videos can be viewed on our YouTube channel:
We are blessed to live in a community where so many people give freely of their time to make great opportunities like this happen for our students.
Thank you Veterans - yesterday, today, and every tomorrow!