Veterans Day celebrations took place throughout the Westerville City School District on Tuesday, November 11. Upper left: Preschool student Gabriel Penry is fascinated with Craig Eberhard’s medals. Eberhard, a veteran, serves as custodian at the Early Learning Center. On Veteran’s Day he led the children in the Pledge of Allegiance and visited each classroom, sharing memories and memorabilia. Upper center: Three year old Anthony Kulich holds his hand over his heart during the Pledge of Allegiance. Upper right: Mike Goodman, Commander of the Westerville VFW, was one of several veterans who spoke with students at Westerville Central High School. The Westerville North graduate served active duty in Afghanistan. Lower left: Boy Scouts Nicholas Sabo and Caleb Kidder prepare to present the colors during McVay Elementary School’s Tribute to our Veterans. Lower right: A Veteran’s Day “Price of Freedom” memorial wall outside the classroom of Westerville North history teacher Ben Hartnell displayed 5,000 stickers, each representing 134 American servicemen and women killed in action. In all, he said, 670,000 American soldiers have died from 1775 to the present.
Dr. John Kellogg, Superintendent of Schools, issued the following statement to his staff: “Please let us never forget that freedom comes with a price. To those of you who have served our country to protect our freedom, thank you. Many of you have lost loved ones to war or have loved one(s) that have served or continue to serve our country, thank you for that sacrifice. A successful society takes individuals who are willing to serve. That service often translates into serving our community in positions such as teachers, business owners, and so much more. Thank you for being a conscience to our nation and serving as a heroic example of who we are and what we can dream to be.”