On November 11, Independence Middle School (IMS) hosted a special Veterans Day celebration to honor and recognize the sacrifices of our nation's veterans. The event was filled with meaningful performances, student reflections, and heartfelt tributes.
"Today, we are gathered here at IMS to commemorate and honor one of the most important days in our nation's history - Veterans Day,” said Principal Jamie Vanek, Independence Middle School. “It is a day when we pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our great country.”
The celebration began with a breakfast for invited veterans and the school's eighth-grade students. This special gathering allowed the students to engage directly with the veterans, learning about their service, what Veterans Day means to them, their life after military service, and their overall military experience.
Students and guests then proceeded to the auditorium for a presentation. The Independence High School (IHS) band took the stage to perform the National Anthem. The IHS Vocal Ensemble and IMS Choirs then sang “America the Beautiful.”
Fifth grader Averi Tokich, sixth grader Haddie Schaefer, seventh grader Scarlett Lewis, and eighth grader Sophia Peskura all read their essays and/or poems dedicated to reflecting and thanking a veteran. William Stray, a sophomore, shared what it is like to have both his mom and dad deployed. His dad is currently away at training, preparing for a commission in the Air Force. School Resource Officer Jim Green discussed his past experiences in the military and why he is proud to have served and continues to serve. General Bob Wagner, a distinguished resident and former council member, shared his story and how Independence prepared him for success as an officer, cadet and soldier. Their words underscored the invaluable contributions of veterans and the importance of honoring their service.
"Hearing the stories and reflections from our veterans was truly moving," said Principal Jamie Vanek. "It was an important opportunity for our students to connect with these heroes and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices they have made."
The program also featured recorded messages from two Independence graduates, Casey Adams (IHS Class of 2024), a freshman cadet at the United States Military Academy West Point and Anthony Presot (IHS Class of 2020), a senior cadet at the United States Military Academy West Point. These young leaders shared insights and perspectives on military service, further inspiring the students in attendance.
When asked how Independence Local Schools prepared Adams for West Point, she said . . .
“Here at West Point, we have so many responsibilities. I have to manage track as well as school and my military obligations within my company. I think Independence prepared me for that because I was involved in so many activities. Though I mentioned earlier that time management is difficult here, it's because West Point purposely overloads you so you learn how to deal with having multiple commitments simultaneously. I had a very strong foundation because Independence Local Schools gave me so many opportunities to be involved in multiple sports in high school, which was incredibly helpful. They provided opportunities to participate in extracurriculars and gave me avenues to pursue clubs, track, and soccer all at the same time. Because I had a strong foundation in time management, transitioning into college was that much easier. I also learned about West Point for the first time in Mr. Schuld’s leadership class when I was in eighth grade. That seed was planted, and now I'm literally here. I am forever grateful that Independence Schools provided me the opportunity to not only get into this prestigious academy but also prepared me along the way and enabled me to be successful during my time here."
When asked how Independence Local Schools prepared Presot for West Point, he said . . .
“I'm truly grateful for all that Independence Local Schools did for me. Independence Local Schools gave me the foundation academically to complete at West Point. I think extracurricular activities are what helped me the most, like wrestling with Coach Steve Colijohn and Ken DeAngelis that taught me mental toughness. Football taught me leadership and teamwork and I learned a lot about patience with my time in baseball. Dr Matt Schatt and Mr. Scott Maretka’s extracurricular activities taught me a lot about planning and preparing.”
The assembly concluded with the band and vocal ensemble performing the Armed Forces Anthem.
“Veterans Day is an opportunity for each one of us to learn from these wonderful examples of leadership and sacrifice, to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they have faced, and the lessons they teach us in bravery, honor, and resilience,” said Vanek.