We formally celebrated Veterans Day on Sunday, November
11. However, many of our schools held celebrations in honor of our nation’s
veterans last week and this week. Veterans Day is important for all of us to
remember. We truly live in the world’s greatest country. As Americans, we have
rights and privileges that citizens in other countries can only dream of. These
rights and privileges have been purchased in a large part by the hard work,
dedication, and sacrifices of the men and women who have worn our nation’s
uniform.
Veterans Day is particularly important for this community
given our proximity to Offutt Air Base and the number of servicemen and women
who live and work in our school district. I personally attended Veterans Day
celebrations at several of our schools. At each event, we asked students and
community members to stand if they served in our armed forces or have family
members who have served. It was incredible to see the huge number of people who
were recognized. It made me very proud as a school leader and community member.
Veterans Day holds special meaning to my family. My
stepfather was active duty in the U.S. Army and served oversees in Germany. An
uncle was active duty Air Force. A nephew is currently a crypto-linguist in the
Air Force. One of my grandparents was a B-26 bomber pilot who was killed during
World War II. Another grandparent was a Marine who served in the South Pacific.
Upon returning home after the war, my grandfather brought back a Japanese
katana blade. When my grandfather passed, the sword was given to me and it
hangs with great pride in my office at home. I have deep respect and admiration
for all who have served.
We have so many families who live and work in our
District who are veterans themselves, as well as those who are currently
serving. To all our residents who have served in our armed forces in any
capacity, thank you for your service and thank you for helping make Papillion
La Vista Community Schools such a special place.
