The school day began with an announcement over the loudspeaker from Principal John Ponton, featuring a brief history of Veterans Day. A recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and “The Star Spangled Banner” then followed. Recognizing the 14 AHS teachers that are veterans of America’s armed forces along with their rank. Ponton made a special  remark about social studies teacher Gregory Commons son, who recently died in battle.

On March 4, 2002, Common’s son, Matthew, died in battle while attempting to save someone else’s life. At the time, he was fighting in Afghanistan Matthew served as a part of the Army Ranger Quick Reaction Force and was part of Operation Anaconda.

“I go to Arlington Cemetery to visit my son,” Commons said.

Commons, himself, spent four years in the Marine Corps and was stationed behind the Iron Curtain in the Vietnam War. He spent most of his time working in the field of security for the U.S. Embassy.

“I think about all the people involved in protecting our country, and remember the sacrifices they make.” said math teacher Bruce Fisher, who  served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force for over 24 years. “I served during wars but did not go to any theaters. I worked in the Pentagon during the first Gulf War.”

Other teachers that have served in the armed forces are: Meghan Adair, Leonard Bumbaca, Benjamin Carlos, Joel Cooley, Jim Evans, Darold Harris, Alison Lane, John Nemeth, Gregory Reed, Ray Smith, Kenny Williams and Fred Zuniga.

These veterans all celebrate Veterans Day differently, other than being praised and honored by the school.

A  flyer was hung on each veteran’s door allowing the entire school to recognize their service. The AHS leadership class sent each veteran a thank you letter, along with a pin for each of them to wear proudly.

Veterans Day started after WWI,  on Nov. 18, 1918, when the fighting ceased with an armistice treaty. Originally named Armistice Day,  it was first incorporated by President Wilson in 1919. In 1938, legislation was passed officially declaring Nov. 11 Armistice Day. Later, on June 1, 1954 (after the Korean War and WWII), Congress met and amended the act, replacing the Armistice with Veterans. And now, across the nation and even the world, citizens honor the devoted soldiers, marines and seals who serve our country.

Many citizens make use of Veterans Day to thank serving men and women for their service to the nation, and for maintaining American freedom.