November 11th is stated to be celebrated as Veterans Day. Federal and State agencys closed and it is a designated day for flags to be flying.

For the Veterans, it is a time to remember some things they would rather forget because the memory is terrifying. However, we should not forget their sacrifice as they served their country - some in wartime and others prepared and ready to defend and help.

San Saba Elementary School invited Veterans for breakfast at 7am and a program on Veterans Day by the 4th grade. 22 Veterans plus their guests attended and enjoyed the event.

Principal Kay Shackleford welcomed everyone and introduced Ross J. Cox, Sr., Post Adjutant of The Veterans of the Wiley B. Murray Post No.27. There was a time of silence for prayer for the families of the soldiers killed and wounded at Fort Hood. After the pledges to the American and Texas flags, Tyler Lackey, a high school student at SSISD, sang the National Anthem. Each veteran gave his name and service.

The 4th graders, under the direction of Music teacher Lauren Shero, sang My Country Tis Of Thee and Yankee Doodle. High School Student Tanner Hawkins played Taps to end the program.

At 2:00 p.m., 13 Veteran’s attended a program by the San Saba Middle School. Principal Michael Bohensky welcomed everyone and explained that a video would be presented. Seventh grade teacher Brooke Calcote, introduced the seven students that prepared the video after interviewing two veteran’s. The students are: Julian Coronado, Andrea Jimenez, McKenna Maxcey, Cassandra Gonzales, Engracia Perez, Sual Cervantes, and Christian Guerrero.

The first veteran was George Rodgers, who attended the program. In the interview he gave a very vivid and detailed report when he served during wartime. Rodgers spoke of Tokyo Rose, attacks, digging and being in Fox Holes, bombs dropping and Mrs. Roosevelt’s visit where he was in combat.

The second veteran was Ted Brown who was in the hospital and unable to attend. Brown spoke of how he was trained to be a soldier, World War II, fighting German soldiers, and being sent a clipping from the San Saba News that his brother was killed in the Battle of the Bulge.

The last part of the video showed news report clippings of soldiers fighting with background music by Frank Sinatra.

The Veteran’s enjoyed refreshments and the students went to their scheduled classes. A glance around the room during the video, showed everyone alert and very interested in hearing from two war heroes. The veteran’s were thankful for the respect of this younger generation to honor them on this important Veteran’s Day.