On Monday, November 10, Ottawa-Glandorf High School students presented a magnificent Veterans Day (formerly Armistice Day) program and luncheon honoring local veterans.

Student council member Danielle Hershberger gave a warm welcome to the veterans and guests. She also explained that on Nov. 11, 1921, an unknown soldier was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. This was done to symbolize dignity and reverence for American veterans.

Adam Hueve, another student council member, gave an enlightening speech about the Veterans Day ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. At 11 a.m. a color guard made up of members from each of the military branches honors America's war dead by executing "Present Arms" at the Tomb of the unknown.

Local veterans of VFW Post 9142, American Legion Post 63 and Disabled American Veterans presented colors. These men are ages 70 to 83 and looked dashing in their uniforms.

Ben Inkrott, another student council member, remarked, "Throughout our Nation's history the United States Armed Forces have bravely answered the call to air our allies, turn back aggressors, stop world-wide terrorism and defend our country's freedom. WE can never fully replay our debt of gratitude to all those who fought for our country. WE can, however, take time to recognize and offer thanks to all those veterans who are still with us today.

The choir, under the direction of Ted Ellerbrock, sang "I Pledge allegiance" plus "American Heroes", which included the theme song of every branch of the service. The songs were truly heart warming.

The band, under the direction of Brent Deskins, gave stirring renditions of "The National Anthem," "Spirit of America" and "America the Beautiful."

Since 2002 approximately 37 O.G. graduates have joined the military service. One graduate, Zack Wobler, was serving duty in Iraq and died in Mosul on Feb. 6, 2005, by insurgent fire and lies at rest in Section 60 on the corner of York and Marshall Roads at Arlington National Cemetery.

The ceremony closed with "Taps" by Kayla Schmidebusch and Brian Breece.

The veterans wish to express their heartfelt thanks to the OG faculty and students for this memorable tribute.

(Armistice was signed the 11^th day and 11^th hour in 1918 to end World War One)

Doris R. German, VFW 9142 Auxiliary

Publicity and Youth Chairperson.