Valwood School in Hahira, Georgia, hosted its annual Veterans Day program on November 11, 2025, honoring the sacrifices and service of veterans from the United States Armed Forces. The event welcomed hundreds of veterans and guests, showcasing a deep appreciation for those who have served.
Upon arrival, veterans were warmly received by first graders waving American flags and assisted by coaches driving golf carts. Upper school students and parents helped distribute name tags, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. Inside the school, third graders handed out programs and small toys, enhancing the sense of celebration.
The program began with a welcome from Head of School John Davis, who emphasized the significance of the day. Students actively participated, leading the Pledge of Allegiance and reciting Red Skelton’s interpretation of its meaning. The program featured a range of musical performances, including “Star-Spangled Banner,” “America the Beautiful,” and “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”
Each branch of the U.S. military was honored with its respective service song, prompting veterans to stand proudly as their contributions were recognized. The program also included performances of popular songs from the World War II era, reflecting the school’s tradition of celebrating the history of American service members.
This year marked a special dedication of the school’s flagpole to three World War II veterans—James Herring, John McGowan, and George Aigen—who have attended the program since its inception in 2008. Davis read the inscription honoring their service: “In Memory of James Herring, John McGowan, and George Aigen, World War II veterans, faithful participants in our veterans program since its inception. Their service and sacrifice embody the spirit of the Greatest Generation. May this flagpole stand as a lasting tribute to their courage, their devotion to country, and their enduring legacy of freedom.”
Following the formal program, veterans were invited to brunch with middle school students. This gathering fostered personal connections, as upper school students often returned to greet “their” veterans from previous years. The tradition began in 2007 when an eighth-grade student wrote a heartfelt letter to a veteran, leading to a shared lunch and the establishment of the annual Veterans Day Program.
Today, middle school students continue to write invitations by hand, preserving the spirit of personal connection that inspired the event. The program has evolved significantly; eighth graders now write the program script, perform solos and duets, while sixth and seventh graders contribute as the chorus. Upper school students also offer additional musical performances and monologues, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.
Valwood School has successfully hosted this program for 17 years, cultivating meaningful relationships between students and veterans while honoring the legacy of those who have served. Vallye Blanton, Veterans Day program director, expressed gratitude for the veterans’ presence, stating, “Each year, we are humbled by the presence of our veterans and the opportunity for our students to learn directly from their experiences. Their stories instill in our students a deep appreciation for service, sacrifice, and citizenship.”
This annual event serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring and remembering the contributions of those who have served in the military.
