Natoma Hosts 14th Annual Veterans Day Musical Salute
In celebrating Veterans Day, men and women of the US Armed Forces in past and present service were honored during the 14th Annual Veterans Day Musical Salute on November 9 in Natoma.
The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 and Natoma-Paradise-Waldo USD 399 hosted the event.
Every Hero Has a Story displayed veterans' military service in the Armed Forces through photographs, artifacts and memorabilia.
A student-veteran panel discussion with Post 109 Commander William Workman gave insight into veterans' personal experiences as a soldier.
The American flag and the American Legion flag were posted by David Kertz and Ron Alexander with Riley Chrisler playing the Bagpipe March. Kristi Mettlen, USD 399 Head Teacher, gave a warm welcome. Osborne County Commissioner Bill Seaman gave veterans honor. American Legion Auxiliary Chaplain Shawna Dunlap opened with a special prayer and then played a patriotic medley on piano. The Veterans Salute music, directed by music teacher Talley Hickman, gave veterans tribute with preschool, elementary, junior high and high school students presenting a repertoire of traditional and contemporary anthems, songs and hymns with instruments and band. A personal letter to the veterans from US Senator Jerry Moran was read by Collin Kisner. Representative Troy Waymaster lauded the veterans for service in protecting and defending freedom. Winning essays were read by Grant Young, Voice of Democracy and by Lynae Paget, Patriots Pen. Sheri Beisner, American Legion Auxiliary Vice President, presented patriotic books to the essay winners in memory of Mary Murphy, American Legion Auxiliary Officer, USD 399 Librarian, Natoma City Librarian and wife of veteran Ron Murphy.
The Veterans Salute continues to inspire students and community to be diligent in supporting veterans, active military and their families in their life long sacrificial service. Following the program, elementary students hosted a veteran luncheon.
For more than 104 years, the American Legion Auxiliary has continued the legacy of women serving veterans, their families, children, youth and community through innovative projects. The Veterans Salute has continued to impact veterans, students and community for a lifetime by restoring confidence in honoring and serving our nation in times of war, conflicts and peace.
(Article by Laah Tucker. Photos by Sheri Beisner.)
