Veterans Day took on a special meaning at Westwood High School as students, faculty, and community members gathered to honor veterans’ sacrifices from all military branches with heartfelt speeches, moving performances, and the sharing of personal stories. The annual ceremony reminded the Redhawk crowd of the legacy of courage and commitment that has created the freedom we often take for granted. This year’s program recognized the veterans among us and aimed to inspire the next generation to continue the tradition of service.

On November 8th, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, Westwood High School organized the annual Veteran’s Day Program in their gymnasium. The Redhawks gym was filled with gratitude and reflection as students, faculty, and community members gathered to honor the sacrifices made by veterans from all branches of the military. From escorts to ushers to public speakers, the JROTC team made the program their number one priority in making it special and heart-touching to the audience. 

The Veteran’s Day program for the Redhawks and its community made a remarkable statement after honoring all veterans who sacrificed their lives for us, including, active duty officers and reserve officers who are also sacrificing their lives for our freedom at this very moment.

Sheriff Major General Leon Lott at the Richland County Sheriff’s leads on to say that. 

“There’s 100% of the population, and at least 75%-99% of our population doesn’t want to stand up to the plate and take that risk that will change the world. But, all it takes is that 1%, and once that 1% takes that shot and once they make it that will give us more freedom and independence.”

Sheriff Brigadier General Leon Lott speaks on behalf of the heroic veterans willing to take that chance to change our country and nation for the better and provide us with more opportunities that could give us all the freedom we desire and deserve.

A Veterans’ Day program for schools and communities can honor military service by hosting an assembly, featuring speeches, color presentations, and a national anthem. While veterans share personal stories, students can express gratitude through poems, essays, or songs. A moment of silence and a community reception foster respect, patriotism, and understanding of the day’s significance.

Tina Green, a Junior and LET 2 cadet in the JROTC program at Westwood High School, shared that:

“This is more about self-discipline and leadership. Learning about yourself improving your mind and soul”.

A Freshman cadet let 1 Jordan Scott escort Mr.Johnson and paid their respects by approaching the reef with a respectful demeanor to set a rose in honor of the war on terrorism that started on September 11th, 2001, and ended in 2011 on May 11th causing the deaths of countless veterans.

She explained that the experience had expanded her perspective on leadership and teamwork and sparked a deeper commitment to serving others, giving her a better understanding of the program.

Colonel Gregory Bauldrick, the creator of Westwood High School’s Veterans Day program, spoke highly about the collaborative effort that has made the event so meaningful year after year. 

“Local veterans, our student cadets, and church members have been willing to support us in all that we do.” 

Baldrick said, showing how the community is bringing the program to life. His vision for the ceremony was to honor veterans, create a deep respect and connection between students and local veterans, and inspire the audience. 

Thanks to the ongoing support from veterans and local organizations, the program has become a bright tradition at Westwood High that continues to grow yearly.

As the ceremony concluded, there was a palpable sense of unity and respect in the air. The stories shared, the performances, and the moments of reflection all served as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made by veterans and the importance of continuing their legacy. 

Thanks to the efforts of Colonel Bauldrick, the JROTC cadets, and the support of local veterans and organizations, the Westwood High Veterans Day program has become a meaningful tradition that will continue to connect students, faculty, and the community in honoring the past while looking ahead to the future. While veterans’ are feeling praised for their heroism, others who are all gathered around in the stands are clapping their hands with soulful chuckles due to our fellow veterans who took that 1% and made it into unity.