Clovis school honors veterans with assembly and breakfast
Students at Reagan Elementary recognized military family members by name on Friday, following a week of lessons and an essay contest.
By Sanjay Caldwell ·
Veterans and their families gathered at Reagan Elementary in Clovis on Friday morning for a recognition ceremony and a communal breakfast. The event was scheduled for the day after Veterans Day to extend the public observance within the school community.
During the assembly, students identified each veteran present by name. A student recited the poem "America's White Table," which references a seat left empty for those who have died in service. The poem states the table is set for one to symbolize missing members of the ranks.
Bailey Ettner helped organize the event. Her brother, Anthony Butterfield, was one of the Buchanan 8, a group of soldiers and Marines from Buchanan High School who died in Iraq and Afghanistan. Ettner said she wanted students to honor veterans and understand they walk alongside heroes daily.
In the weeks leading up to the event, students studied the history of Veterans Day and completed arts and crafts projects. Harper Ely won the school's essay contest and read her submission to the room. She noted that veterans fought so citizens could use their voices to stand up for what is right. Ely said she hoped her classmates would learn the importance of voting and how veterans keep the country safe.
The assembly concluded with students singing "You're a grand old flag." Following the performance, the school hosted a breakfast for the honored guests. The dining area was decorated with student artwork. U.S. Army veteran Chris Brezman viewed a drawing created by one of his grandchildren. Brezman said he was surprised by the event but honored by his grandchildren's invitation.
Brezman expressed appreciation for the educational focus of the day. He stated that instilling a sense of history and patriotism in young children is important for understanding where the nation came from and how its connections were formed. Ettner added that the goal was for students to recognize that freedom is not free and that military families make substantial sacrifices.
The event ended with the breakfast service. No further public ceremonies are scheduled for the school regarding this specific observance.
