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NOV.14,2022— Pal-Mac was proud to host our nation's heroes as part of several Veterans Day ceremonies on Thursday, Nov.10.

The day started at the Primary School, where vets and their families were treated to breakfast in the school's cafeteria. Following the meal, veterans were lead into the school's gymnasium for a special ceremony which included a crowd of cheering students who were flying small American flags. The groups of veterans were introduced by the branch of the United States Armed Forces they served in.

Lead Music Teacher Cindy Hill guided students in singing several songs to the group. In turn, the veterans introduced themselves one-by-one, with some sharing they were present at the ceremony because of a grandchild in the crowd.

One veteran, however, was there to share a gift back to a particular student. Pamela Paul, a retired Navy veteran and 1988 Pal-Mac grad, took the mic, and acknowledged the student for previously giving her a kindness rock as part of the "Scribble Stones" project back in June.

Paul then presented a gift of her own, a cross-stitched pattern that said "Tis a Gift to Be Free."  She put the pattern in the very same bag the student gave to Paul in June.

"It just meant so much for her to say I love you," Paul said. "I just wanted to gift her something, and maybe she can show her friends."

"We were so proud to be sharing this special time with our vets at the Primary School!" Principal Jamie Murphy said.

Following PMP's ceremony, Paul and her fellow vets lined the halls to give students a high-five or a hug as they left the gym, then it was onto the Intermediate School.

At the school, vets were treated to another full-school ceremony in the gym. This time, students who participate in a local Cub Scout troop presented a flag folding demonstration, this was followed by a full-school sing along to "The Star Spangled Banner," as well as "America the Beautiful."

Just after the ceremony, veterans were treated to snacks in the cafeteria, but that's not all. As the group ate, students came around and gave them each several hand-written cards from students across the whole school. Veterans each received multiple cards.

Principal Jenn Check closed the day off with some final words:

"Take a moment to think about and be grateful for all the veterans in our community, and who have given their lives. On Friday (Veterans Day) or any other day whenever you have the chance, say thank you to a member of our military." 

Thursday's ceremonies followed a similar event held at the Middle School earlier in the week.

Photo galleries from the events can be found by clicking the links below:

Primary School

Intermediate School