Area Veterans Day events announced

Several Veterans Day ceremonies are planned in area schools and communities this week.

Pontiac’s traditional Veterans Day service will take place at 11 a.m. on the west side of the Livingston County Courthouse. In case of rain, the program will be held at St. Mary’s Parish Hall. Jim Anderson is the guest speaker. He is a Navy veteran and served as a Navy recruiter.

The Pontiac Township High School band will perform along with a vocalist. A 21-gun salute will be given by the combined Color Guard along with a performance of Taps. Honorary Mothers include Carolyn Ledford (WWI), Ann Worthington (WWII), Carole Peterson (Korean War), Norma Studebaker (Vietnam War), Shirley Wieger (Operation Desert Storm), Joanie Corielle (Iraq War), Marilyn Broerman (Afghanistan War).

Pontiac Township High School will have an assembly from 2:10 to 2:50 p.m. featuring the bands and guest speaker Officer Addy Trujillo. She is a Pontiac Police Officer and School Resource Officer. Abbie Rapp will discuss the banner project seen in the commons area and will present banners on behalf of PTHS to several recent local veterans.

The Gold Star Mission will be discussed along with Illinois Gold Star Mothers. Brooklyn Albertson will explain Gold Star Mothers while Trinity Smith and Leela Zygadlo share stories.

Lexington High School has planned a service at 10 a.m. in the high school gym.

Prairie Central High School will also hold a Veterans Day event in the afternoon. An ice cream social will be served from 1:45 to 2:15 with an assembly at 2:30 p.m. Prior to that, PC Upper Elementary in Forrest is having an assembly and breakfast at 8:15 a.m. and PC Elementary in Fairbury has a Walk of Fame with presenters pre-arranged from 9 to 10:30 a.m.