By JAN McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
The kindergartners saluted as they sang about the “Grand Old Flag.” The fifth graders read aloud a poetic tribute to veterans featuring a line written by each of the students.
And as each veteran stood to introduce themselves, they gave a shoutout to the family member or neighbor who invited them. Students proud to be represented by the veterans shot to their feet and waved frantically so they could be seen from the stage.
The Kenwood Elementary School assembly for Veterans Day last Friday was all about thanking local veterans for their service.
Dustin Bauman, a Bowling Green firefighter and retired Air Force master sergeant – with possibly the most important title being dad to Kenwood students, Lucy and Lydia – was the master of ceremonies for the assembly held Friday at the Veterans Building in City Park.
Bauman enlisted in the Ohio Air National Guard in 2000 and served with the 180th Fighter Wing for more than 24 years.
“We are so happy to have you all gathered here today at the Veterans Memorial Building to celebrate all of the veterans that are connected to our Kenwood family,” Bauman said.
“This is a time when we all take a moment to pause and recognize the contributions of all of our U.S. veterans to our American way of life,” he continued. “Without the efforts of all these men and women, our country would not be the same. We welcome all of our veterans and we want you to know that we are honored to share this day with you.”
The stage was full of veterans who served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard.
“These men and women have made a personal choice to put the safety and security of our country as a high priority in their lives,” Bauman said. “Therefore, this day is one to honor them.”
Fifth grader Dawson Sprow came to the podium, and explained how Kenwood classes prepared for the assembly.
“Each year we learn patriotic music for Veterans Day and we spend time learning the history of each song as well as the meaning behind it. We also spend time learning about what Veterans Day means and why we celebrate it,” Dawson said.
“This year all of the different classes talked a bit about honor, sacrifice, bravery and selflessness,” he continued. “These are all characteristics of a veteran. And while we may not have personal experiences that help us understand exactly how this day feels for you, we do have respect for your work and your service. We are grateful for you and we are so glad that you are with us today.”
The students sang the armed forces medley, with songs for each branch of the military.
Bauman then took a serious tone to the celebration.
“As we gather here today, it is likely that we all enter this day with mixed emotions,” he said. “While it is a day of honor and pride for many, we would be remiss if we failed to acknowledge the lives lost in action and those who are no longer with us.”
The Kenwood students and staff joined in a moment of silence followed by the playing of “Taps.”
“Our country may not be without its problems, but the freedoms and opportunities we experience here are like none other,” Bauman said.
Each Bowling Green City School District building holds a Veterans Day program each year.
