The students and staff of Patterson Elementary School honored many of our community's veterans this year by hosting their annual Veterans Day Breakfast and Assembly on November 11. Over 100 veterans and guests were welcomed by student house leaders before enjoying a breakfast featuring Dorothy Griffin's breakfast casserole, muffins and fruit. Veterans and guests were then escorted to the school's multipurpose room for the assembly.
A special welcome was given by Kade Crapps, and an invocation was led by Eliza Horne. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mason Jankowski. Other special recognitions during the ceremony were provided by Elouise Sports, Sam Hughes, Polly Hodges and teacher Julie Griner. The assembly included performances by PCHS Sound of Silver Symphonic Band under the direction of Robert McCoy and a musical tribute by PES first grade students.
A highlight of the ceremony was the heartfelt speech given by local educator and veteran, John DuPont. DuPont was a guest of his two sons, third grade student Daniel Du-Pont and pre-K student Andrew DuPont. In honor of all veterans, the halls of PES were decorated with an assortment of patriotic student artwork.
Another high point of the ceremony was a special invitation issued on behalf of Patterson's Historical Commission by PES Beta Marketing and Communications Team, Landri Bennett, Polly Hodges, Karsyn Bennett and Eliza Horne. The invitation to attend a premier viewing of the new Veterans Museum at Eagle Station was issued to all veterans and guests in attendance.
The museum showcases historical artifacts from American history, including Native Americans and every major American war. The museum was spearheaded by Patterson native, Frances Thomas Wilburs and has been a labor of love. Wilburs is passionate about sharing the stories of American soldiers with others. The new museum is dedicated to all veterans and their service to our country. Through this historical museum located at Eagle Station in Patterson, the sacrifices made by American soldiers will truly never be forgotten.
