Ringgold Middle School students celebrate veterans

Patriotic music, readings and posters greeted the veterans who attended Thursday’s program at the middle school.

At Ringgold Middle School, honoring veterans wasn’t just something that happened on stage. It was written on every wall, in crayon, marker and construction paper stars. Students’ voices weren’t only heard through songs or speeches — they were seen in the artwork that lined the hallways.

Those handmade posters may have said more than any speech or song. They told veterans what words sometimes can’t: that they are seen, appreciated and remembered.

The school’s annual Veterans Day program, held Thursday morning, brought that spirit to life from the moment guests walked through the doors.

Veterans and their families were welcomed with a hot breakfast, served by staff and student volunteers. It wasn’t a catered event, but it didn’t need to be.

Donuts, muffins, casseroles, juice, coffee and the school’s famous breakfast pizza filled the tables, but the real centerpiece was the conversation.

Students stopped to shake hands. Teachers made introductions. Friends and family caught up with familiar faces in uniform. It was warm and personal.

Before heading to the gymnasium, many paused for a photo or took a slow walk through the hallways.

Each one was lined with handmade posters and patriotic artwork created by students.

There were flags made from construction paper, drawings of soldiers and salutes, and messages like “Thank You For Our Freedom” written in every color of marker and paint.

Inside the gym, the tone was more ceremonial.

The Ringgold Middle School band played a series of patriotic selections as veterans made their way to their seats. The bleachers were packed with students, faculty and family members.

For students, this was more than a performance, it was a real understanding of what service looks like.

The program opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by two student readings that captured the importance of the day.

Fifth-grader Adriana Popich read a piece reflecting on the sacrifices made by veterans: “When America had an urgent need, they were the first to raise their hand, proud to take a stand. Some came back from war with battle scars, others draped in flagged coffins. Even though their flesh has left, their spirits will never be forgotten.”

Sixth-grader Anisa Pope followed with a poem about remembering the fallen: “There are times we want to for- get, like when troubles and sadness we met. But this day in November — we’ll always remember—the heroes, too many to forget.”

The room remained still as the readings ended. Then came the roll call.

One by one, the names of attending veterans were called. Each stood to be recognized, some rising slowly, others giving a quiet wave.

Seventh-grader Ben Barry gave a reading on the 250year legacy of the United States Marine Corps, highlighting the core values of honor, courage and commitment.

Sixth-grader Colby Gump shared the essay he entered into a statewide contest on patriotism.

Last year, Gump won $125 at the local level. This year, he’s aiming for state — and the $50,000 national prize.

“Showing patriotism is more than just waving the flag or singing the national anthem,” Gump read. “It is showing pride, responsibility and commitment to our country through actions, values and community.”

The keynote speaker, retired U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Dave Papak, told students that patriotism isn’t something you read in a textbook.

“Patriotism is caught,” he said. “It’s passed down through stories, through example. It’s our responsibility to make sure these kids understand what that means.”

He urged faculty, parents and veterans to keep teaching by sharing their lived experiences, and encouraged students to be curious, to ask questions and to care about their country’s past and future.

Several families brought those lessons full circle.

Graham Tayler, a U.S. Army veteran, was invited by his daughter, Kyleigh.

“I feel proud,” he said. “Being here, you can’t help but feel immense pride.”

Carl Winberg, a Navy veteran, attended with his grandson, Caleb. His perspective offered a reminder of how far the country has come.

“We were told not to wear our uniforms, that we would get spit on,” he said of his return home. “So this here, this is good.”

Nate Senf, an Army veteran, stood beside his daughter Addy, a sixth grader.

“The school spends so much time and effort in doing this, and it’s appreciated,” he said. “General Papak said it best. Our Addy is very patriotic. She asks all the time about my service. She’s proud.”

Addy added, “They did it so selflessly, and they put others before themselves. I want to be like that.”