Hundreds attend SAD 4 Veterans’ Tribute

By Mike Lange
Staff Writer

    GUILFORD — Hundreds of veterans, their families and friends packed the Piscataquis Community Secondary School gym on Friday, Nov. 8 for the ninth annual School Administrative District 4 Veterans’ Tribute.

Observer photo/Mike Lange

    I LOVE MY COUNTRY — Fourth graders opened up the musical portion of the SAD 4 Veterans’ Day program under the direction of Michelle Figg.

    Some wore their American Legion or VFW caps. Others dressed in camouflage uniforms and many came in wheelchairs.
    Superintendent Ann Kirkpatrick welcomed the crowd, thanking the veterans “for the sacrifices you and your families have endured to keep this great nation strong and its people free.”
    Members of the Marine Corps League conducted a demonstration of the American flag folding ceremony and explained the meaning of each of the 13 folds.

Observer photo/Mike Lange

    THIS IS AMERICA — Fifth graders saluted veterans with a song and placards from each branch of the Armed Forces during the Veterans’ Day program Nov. 8 at Piscataquis Community Secondary School.

    Other highlights included the history of Veterans’ Day by the PCSS National Honor Society; musical presentations by the fourth, fifth and sixth grade classes under the direction of music director Michelle Figg; more patriotic music by the PCSS Chorus Club, accompanied by Julie Harrington; a riveting solo of “Arlington” by Danika French; a medley of Armed Forces themes by the PCSS band under the direction of Les Tomlinson; and a grand finale of flag-waving third graders directed by Sheryl Allen.
    Veteran Edward Grant of Sangerville, who served in the Army from 1961-64, has been to every Veterans’ Salute since it began nine years ago. “I wouldn’t miss it for anything. The school does a great job,” Grant said.

Observer photo/Mike Lange

    A GRATEFUL NATION — Pictured are the PCES sixth-grade singers and their tribute to local veterans at the Nov. 8 program.

    Richard Hersey of Guilford is a Vietnam-era Army veteran and said that he also enjoys SAD 4’s annual presentation. “It makes us feel appreciated,” Hersey said. “The kids do a wonderful job and it’s nice to see such a great turnout.”
    Principal Kevin Harrington also praised the veterans, and emphasized that “you are not forgotten. You made the sacrifice and the honor is yours. Today, I hope you’re able to absorb that and reflect on all you did for your country.”

Observer photo/Mike Lange

    ARLINGTON — One of the highlights of the SAD 4 Veterans’ Day program on Friday, Nov. 8 was a moving rendition of “Arlington” by soloist Danica French.