Veterans Day

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.