Sgt. Andy Weaver Speaks to McKenzie High School Students

McKENZIE (November 11) — McKenzie High School students and faculty honored America’s veterans Wednesday during the school’s annual Veterans Day program. A long list of student leaders led the program’s opening remarks before turning the stage over to Sergeant Andy Weaver, a 16-year member of the U.S. Army National Guard.

Sgt. Weaver, a 23-year veteran police officer, is a school resource officer at the McKenzie Special School District. During his time, Sgt. Weaver has deployed to Iraq in support of “Operation Iraqi Freedom” and to Poland in support of NATO’s “Operation Atlantic Resolve.” A McKenzie native, Weaver has two children, Rena and Gatlin, with his wife of 14 years, Callan Weaver.

Carlton Townes, a senior, welcomed all veterans and students to the program before introducing the Boy Scouts of America, who demonstrated the posting of colors. The McKenzie High School band performed the national anthem, and Townes followed by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Tobey Brooks read a brief history of Veterans Day to attendees, and Townes read a poem titled “It’s the Veteran.” Student Council officers Ryan Toombs, Madeline Gottshall, Gracie Aird and Kinsley Wilson read explanations of American conflicts including World War I, World War II and the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and Bosnia.

McKenzie High School principal announced the names of each veteran in attendance, allowing attendees to recognize and honor their efforts.

The McKenzie High School band performed patriotic music for the veterans, and Sophie Cole followed with a solo song.

Townes then introduced Sgt. Weaver, who addressed the veterans and students in attendance.

Following Sgt. Weaver’s speech, Student Council officers Gracie Aird, Madeline Gottshall and Ryan Toombs each read poems “They Did Their Share,” “Heroes,” and “Honor Our Military,” respectively.

Principal Spivey then announced the school’s winning “Voice of Democracy” essayist: Madelyn Morris. Morris read her essay to attendees.

Lola Barton performed “Taps,” the traditional military funeral hymn, on her trumpet in memory of fallen soldiers.

The Boy Scouts of America performed the removal of colors, and Brooks read the closing remarks, thanking veterans for their service and sacrifices.

Principal Spivey dismissed students and veterans from the program shortly after, inviting the present veterans to lunch in the school cafeteria.