There are subjects that annually make their way into Kosey’s Korner, not because I am at a loss for words, but because I believe they are subjects worth repeating; this is one of those columns.
On Monday, Nov. 11 we will be celebrating Veterans Day, the day meant to honor and recognize all those who have served in the armed forces. It is not to be confused with Memorial Day, which honors those who have given their lives for our country.
The day originates from what was known as Armistice Day, when President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 proclaimed the day marking the end of World War I a national holiday. It was on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month when the armistice with Germany went into effect, ending The Great War. After the end of World War II, in 1945, a bill was signed in Congress proclaiming it Veterans Day.
Veterans Day has come to mean many things to many people, and not always in the spirit of the original intent. For many it may mean a day off from work, or it could mean sales, surely you have noticed stores are advertising their Veterans Day sales.
But our area schools have taken a more meaningful approach. One of the more moving programs is held at Riverside-Brookfield High School. On Monday, Nov. 11 at approximately 8:15 a.m. the students will assemble in the gym to welcome veterans who will be honored for their service.
Veterans will be seated in places of honor and the band will play each of the military branch songs. As the songs are played, members of those branches of the military will rise and stand proud. It is quite a moving ceremony and makes one appreciate what others have done for us.
The program was the idea of retired RBHS teacher Bill Jirkovsky, who believed the students should be in school and learn what the day means instead of just taking another day off. The program now is planned by teacher John Fields.
The vets will enjoy a breakfast before the assembly and have their pictures taken. Following the ceremony many will be ushered to classrooms to tell the students of their experiences.
If you would like to learn more about the ceremony or be a part of it, you can contact the school at 708-442-7500. It is a moving experience, one that will bring a tear to your eye.
