Another successful Veterans Day Celebration was hosted by Checotah Public Schools and honored all who served in the military especially local veterans on Tuesday, November 11.

The special day started with a delicious breakfast cooked by the Checotah FCCLA to show their appreciation and served at the west side of the Myrtle Frost Event Center. Veterans enjoyed homemade biscuits and gravy with eggs, sausage and fresh fruit made into an America flag design.

“Checotah FCCLA was honored to be a part of such an amazing day and loved showing our gratitude by serving the brave men and women who have served our country,” said FCCLA teacher April Sinor. “We were more than happy to join forces with Checotah FFA and Mr. Ilbery to feed our heroes before they got to enjoy a wonderful Veterans Day Program at the Performing Art Center.”

After breakfast Checotah FFA members presented the Veterans Day Program with Jade McPeak bringing the welcome and Macee Glover leading everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance and a Moment of Silence. The Checotah High School choir then sang the National Anthem.

Shayla Dismukes introduced Checotah superintendent Monte Madewell who welcomed everyone, especially the veterans, for coming to the school’s annual event which honored them for their service.

Rylee Howell gave a speech about the history of Veterans Day, which was originally celebrated as Armistice Day on Nov. 11, 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson one year after the end of World War I. It was to honor the fallen soldiers and those who fought with bravery for American’s freedom. Then in 1938, Armistice Day was established to remember the agreement signed back on Nov. 11, 1918, marking the end of World War I.

CHS Principal Jennifer Campbell then introduced the key speaker, Sen. Bryan Logan, SD 8, who spoke of the real sacrifice and the cost of freedom which is never free. Rep. Neil Hays, SD 13, also spoke and once again thanked all the veterans for their service.

Trey Anderson and Avery Williams introduced each veteran in attendance and the CHS Choir gave a patriotic salute to all the different branches of the military while The Class of Checotah played “Armed Forces on Parade” and “Danny Boy.” Then a video was played and once again veterans were thanked for their service.

Avery Williams did the closing remarks as Bailey Burton, Jeffery Chapman and Trey Anderson were honored to do the Folding of The Flag.

The program ended with Taps being played by The Class of Checotah as everyone stood and remembered the sacrifices made and the real reason Veterans Day is so special.