On November 11, 1918, fighting in World War I ceased when an armistice between Allied forces and Germany took effect at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. One year later, on November 11, 1919, Americans observed the first Armistice Day to honor those who served in this war.
Now known as Veterans Day, this special observance offers Americans the opportunity to express gratitude to all who have served our nation in uniform. Jackson Academy honored veterans through meaningful programs and activities that united students, faculty, and families in appreciation.
The Lower School opened Tuesday morning with a Patriotic Program in the Performing Arts Center. Students delivered readings, performed patriotic songs, and presented military branch anthems while displaying corresponding flags. Veterans in attendance stood for recognition as their fellow audience members applauded their service.
At 10 a.m., Preschool students gathered in the Activities Building wearing festive patriotic hats—some resembling Lady Liberty’s crown, others styled after Uncle Sam’s top hat. Each of the three grades performed a patriotic song for an audience of Lower School students and veteran parents.
Following the performance, JA’s youngest Raiders paraded through campus buildings in a sea of red, white, and blue. Preschoolers from K4 down to the two-year-old class proudly waved handmade crafts celebrating Veterans Day, greeting staff members, exchanging fist bumps with familiar faces, and sharing hugs with parents who work at JA.
As the clock turned to 11:00 a.m., a lone trumpet played by senior Mac Harris sounded across campus as part of a nationwide event called Taps For Veterans, in which buglers usher in two minutes of remembrance by playing Taps at 11 a.m. on November 11. Those two minutes have commemorated the end of World War I since the first observation of Armistice Day in 1919. In America, those two minutes are also dedicated to remembering the men and women who are veterans of all of this nation’s wars.
Jackson Academy extends its deepest appreciation to all who have served our country. Your sacrifice and dedication ensure the freedoms we cherish today.
