WILLIAMSBURG — Forty-five military veterans, representing every branch, stood to be honored during the Providence Classical School’s (PCS) annual Veterans Day Ceremony.
The annual ceremony, which took place on Monday, Nov. 11, provides students and faculty the opportunity to celebrate those who served through music, prayer, featured speakers and recognition.
Susan Owels, PCS’s Head of School, stated in her welcome speech, “We gather to honor you — the brave men and women who served our nation. It is a privilege to recognize you for your courage, your sacrifice and your dedication.”
The program featured a string instrumental patriotic medley of songs played by students and then featured all the lower grades performing various spoken and singing pieces that commemorated military service from the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
Dr. Charles Frazier, a former Naval officer who now practices family medicine with Riverside Hospital, was the keynote speaker. He offered words directly to the PCS students, stating, “There are three things I want to talk to you about this morning. What the military can do for you, what the military has done for you and I want to talk to you about gratitude.”
Frazier explained how he chose his profession and how the Navy allowed him to reach his dream of becoming a doctor.
Service members and veterans in attendance were asked to come forward and state what branch they served, when, and a little about themselves. The room sat in awe as 45 people rose to stand proud and say a few words about their commitment to the United States military.
The last person to speak left an impression as he told the crowd his greatest joy was being able to see his grandchildren participate in this year’s Veterans Day program honoring those who served.
Learn more about Providence Classical School on its webpage.
