Fair Grove Salutes the Spirit of Patriotism

On November 11, 2016 the student body gathered in the high school gymnasium to honor the men and women who have served and are serving around the world for our country’s freedom. The assembly was started with the high school choir. They performed the Star Spangled Banner. The student body president, Maegan Holland then led the entire student body in the the Pledge of Allegiance. After, the choir then sang again performing We Honor You. Next, two students, Tanner Lumley (8th) and Lydia Engle (7th) read their papers that they had written about why they were thankful for our Veterans.

The administration each year invites a speaker who has served to talk about their journey; how important our Veterans are, and what they do for our country. This year Mr. John Sorensen spoke. He ended his speech thanking the Veterans and stated to the the student body, “And to you all, thank you very much for this opportunity, may God bless you all. God bless America.” After Mr. John Sorensen had given his  speech the high school band played a collaboration of each branch’s song. As each song was played the members of that branch were invited to stand to be recognized for their service. The taps were played following the branch’s songs, as well as a moment of silence for all of the fallen soldiers. Julie Swadley put together a video of all active and retired members. Mrs. Schnakenberg, science teacher, is married to Ben Schnakenberg. “He is in the Army and is on reserve. He is a diesel mechanic,” Mrs. Schnakenberg explained. Everything they have done for this country is to ensure that everyone back home has the freedom that they are fighting for.