For several years, I have covered the Veterans Day Tribute at Lincoln Middle School.
Every year, I listen to beautiful songs performed by the Monroe Intermediate School choir and LMS band.
I also watch the Boy Scouts perform the empty chair ceremony and listen to presentations.
Though all of this is touching, what gets me every year is the video playing of soldiers in war. The sad music played with it doesn’t help much.
Each year, I try to remain an objective reporter and emotionally remove myself like I am suppose to, but I must admit, I usually fail at this.
Yes. That is me. Stephanie Thompson, wiping some tears away from my face real quick-like. Hoping no one saw me crying during the ceremony. It’s like when I cry at a movie theater, even though it is dark I seriously think everyone is watching me cry, which is a silly thought because they are probably watching the movie.
It probably doesn’t help that I sit in the very front row.
Each year, I am overcome with emotion. I can’t help myself. I just start thinking about how horrible wars are and what this country has gone through to help other countries out. I think of those who are returning home from war wounded and emotionally scared for life. I think of those who are retuning home in a coffin and it is hard to hold the tears back. I think of how hard it must be for those families, especially those with young children, to move forward with their lives without a loved one with them.
I think sometimes we forget just how lucky we are to have such brave men and women who choose to make this sacrifice. Giving up their time with their families and friends so that I may have the freedom to spend time with mine. Sometimes they give the ultimate sacrifice -- their life.
It is great that we have Veterans Day as an official holiday honoring those who have served in the armed forces, but sometimes I wonder if it is enough. We should be thinking about them daily. Although I am always overcome with emotion by this program, it is one I feel is necessary and I appreciate all of the hard work that went into putting this together.
At the end of the program, those in the military are encouraged to stand up with their song is played. I am always amazed at how many their are in the audience and once again I find myself near tears when I see the pride in those veterans’ faces.
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