Freedom Crest assembly honors Veterans Day

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MENIFEE -- On Wednesday morning, community members could spot a firetruck ladder displaying the U.S. flag and a firetruck parked right in the middle of an elementary school. Over 100 students, staff and families gathered together at Freedom Crest Elementary for their annual Veteran’s Day Assembly. This special and uplifting event brought together veterans from Freedom Crest’s families, staff, and community for a morning of acknowledgement and appreciation.

“This is a remarkable event and I am so glad that we are able to acknowledge our veterans,” said MUSD Superintendent Jennifer Root. “It is also a delight to see our children honoring those who have served in the armed forces and to celebrate their valor.”

The school was decorated in red, white, and blue and with creative student art. Flags representing the various service branches were flown around the event. Student choirs filled a stage to sing their hearts out for the veterans.

Kindergarten students sang "Yankee Doodle Boy," first graders sang "Grand Old Flag," second graders sang "American Heroes," third graders sang "Thank You Military" and a Military Medley, and fourth graders sang "On Veterans Day." Veterans were invited to stand as they heard the theme to their branch being sung.

MUSD Board Member Bob O’Donnell stood proudly when the students sang “Off we go into the wild blue yonder, climbing high into the sun”, his theme song from his days in the U.S. Air Force.

David Brueder played the National Anthem on the trumpet to open the show, then later, he played Taps for a moment of silence. Guest speaker, Coach Schu, delivered a stirring message. In a demonstration of deep appreciation, students shouted “We appreciate you!” and proceeded to hand out hand-written thank you notes that they had prepared for all of the veterans. In this moving act. parents hugged their children closely and there were teary eyes across the campus.

Principal Eli Orr shared how excited he was to be able to host this event once again.

“This is an important event here at Freedom Crest. I am grateful for Mrs. Star Root, one of our third grade teachers, who works tirelessly to coordinate this meaningful event.”

As the performances ended, guests were invited to a library filled with breakfast treats and patriotic decor. Schools across the district held similar ceremonies as a demonstration of support and appreciation for our veterans throughout the school communities.