Lower school students honor veterans

Lower school students honored United States veterans during their Veterans Day Program directed by Lisa McNearney, lower school music director. 
The performance opened with the Presentation of Colors by students Amelia Dennis ‘32, Daniel Huyett ‘33, Elin Kate Jellie ‘32, and Giana Slater ‘32. Attendees were invited to join students in the Pledge of Allegiance and the Star-Spangled Banner. 

Former United States President Wilson proclaimed the first Armistice Day the year after World War I ended on November 11, 1919. Students explained that an armistice is “when the fighting stops.” In honor of this day, kindergarten students performed the “Eleven, Eleven March” by Teresa Jennings. 

Next, fourth grade students performed “Chester” by William Billings (arranged by Paul Jennings). The song was written during America’s Revolutionary War along with the popularYankee Doodle” arranged by Teresa and Paul Jennings. First grade students performed “Yankee Doodle.” 

As third grade students performed “Our Red, White, and Blue” by Karl Hitzemann, they shared reflections on the American flag, an important symbol for our nation. Students explained that red signifies hardiness and valor; blue represents justice, and white stands for purity and innocence. 

“Taps” arranged by Teresa Jennings is one of the most recognized military bugle calls in America. Second grade students performed “Taps,” and they also led the crowd in a moment of silence to honor veterans and those who lost their lives in service. 

Pre-first students performed “I’m Glad that I Live in America” by Mary Kay Beall. Students described the many blessings of being an American, recalling how they often forget just how fortunate they are to have the opportunity to get an education and make choices for themselves. 

Lastly, the Lower School Choristers sang "Those Who Served" by Teresa Jennings, "Our Veterans Day," by Karl Hatizemann, "We Will Not Forget" by John Riggio, and "Proud of Our Veterans" by Teresa Jennings as a slideshow of Wesleyan families’ veterans played in the background. The Choristers included Layla Araim ‘33, Wyatt Brooker ‘31, Sophie Carpenter ’32, Payton Dunn ‘31, Aria Eagleton ‘32, Olivia Hall ‘31, Lucy Joyner ‘33, Maisie Lord ‘33, Larke Merritt ‘32, Caroline Smith ‘32, Ella Waters ‘31, Vivienne Wilson ‘31, and Mary Yoder ‘31. 

The program ended with the “Service Medley,” and members of the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Corps were invited to stand as their branch was recognized. 

Thank you to all the parents and friends who joined us to honor our veterans and cheer on our lower school students. 
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