by Lisa Schauer
Vietnam veteran Gray Jones was the guest speaker at Warm Springs Middle School’s annual Veterans Day program, held on the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corp, on Monday, November 10.
Jones served 13 years in the U.S. Marines, arriving at Parris Island in 1966. He spoke of his experience as a radio operator in a reconnaissance battalion on patrol in Vietnam.
“I’m proud to be a Marine,” said Jones, who left as a captain after being wounded in combat. He is currently a volunteer at the school, and is a member of the Tri-State Honor Guard.
“We all have it in us to do the right thing,” said Jones of everyday heroism.
Master of ceremonies was Principal Jamie Harris, who introduced the tradition of an annual Veterans Day program when he took leadership at Warm Springs Middle School.
Principal Harris said the school wants to teach the values of service, sacrifice, and gratitude. He said it is important to say thank you to veterans, and honor their service.
Twenty-nine local veterans in attendance were recognized, as Harris read each name and military branch. A few are staff members at the school.
Warm Springs Middle School band and choir members performed patriotic tunes, under the direction of Ian Helmick.
Berkeley Springs High School band performed a rousing veteran’s salute, under the direction of Robert Myers.
Berkeley Springs High School dance troupe performed “Soldier” as the veterans, students and staff looked on.
Tri-State Honor Guard presented the colors, performed a 21-gun salute, and a folding of the flag ceremony.
Marine veteran Gray Jones delivered an inspiring speech on everyday heroism at Warm Springs Middle School Veterans Day program on Monday. November 10.
Gray Jones, right, ceremoniously administers the uniformed services oath of office to veterans at Warm Springs Middle School’s Veterans Day program.
Berkeley Springs High School dance troupe performed “Soldier” at Warm Springs Middle School’s Veterans Day program.
Ian Helmick leads the band and choir at Warm Springs Middle School for the Veterans Day program.
An anonymous student’s poem to veterans was included in the Veterans Day program at Warm Springs Middle School on Monday, November 10.
photos by Lisa Schauer
