Robert Down Elementary School on Pine Avenue honored veterans and active military personnel on Friday, November 8.  In the school “Ottertorium,” the students heard inspirational words from United States Army Sergeant First Class Timothy Keesecker.  Sergeant First Class Keesecker and his sons, Carter and Jack, were the Masters of Ceremony for the event. Sergeant First Class Keesecker explained the history behind Veterans Day.  Carter and Jack Keesecker lead the students in the Pledge of Allegiance and in singing a patriotic song. A moment of silence was held in honor of deceased military members for their service and protection of our country.

Special guests included veterans and uniformed fathers, mothers, brothers, aunts, and grandparents representing the United States Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, Air Force and the Norwegian military.   Children of the military personnel present announced each person to the crowd of 500+ students, staff, and parents. Both of Bella Green’s grandparents, John Goulart and John Lomato, attended.  Bella told the audience that her Grandfather Lomato was in the U.S. Navy and her 92 year old Grandfather Goulart was in the Air Force during World War II.  It was evident how proud all the students were of their family members in the military.