Area honors Veterans
- Kent Casson
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
Local schools and communities marked Veterans Day in different ways on Tuesday.
Prairie Central Upper Elementary in Forrest held a ceremony in the gym honoring those who serve or who have served. PCUE Principal Brandon Burke described the day to recognize their courage and commitment.
“Thank you all for serving,” Burke said.
Members of the Forrest American Legion Honor Guard were there to present the colors with patriotic music provided by the Prairie Central Junior High Band. A handful of students read a short description of military history for the various branches. A video was then shared featuring local veterans and their connections to the community and the Upper Elementary family.
“Veterans, thank you so much for showing up today,” Burke concluded.
Those attending were then invited to the breakfast in the school commons.
Just off to the northwest in Pontiac, a late morning ceremony on the west side of the courthouse square marked Veterans Day. Emcee Mick Peterson spoke of the holiday’s history, noting the name was changed after World War II and Korea.
“Thank you for standing watch,” stated Peterson. “Thank you for going into that fox hole or going behind enemy lines.”
Pastor Ginger Harris presented the invocation and benediction at the event.
“We lift up everyone in Christ’s name that has served.”
Featured speaker at the Pontiac ceremony was Sgt. 1st Class William Reynolds who has completed tours of duty in Desert Storm and Afghanistan with 27 years in the military.
One of the things that has kept the former Pontiac Police officer here is the community.
“I can feel a sense of pride for our service members,” observed Reynolds.
He served in Desert Storm at the age of 19 and wasn’t sure what he was getting into. Reynolds had struggles after returning from Afghanistan.
“You just don’t know what we go through when we are over there,” stated Reynolds. “You never know what the fight is.”
Reynolds thanked all of the service members before him.
“If you see a veteran, thank them every day.”
He also encouraged checking on family members.
The Pontiac service near the courthouse also included the laying of wreaths around the monuments and music from the Pontiac Township High School band.
