Lincoln Elementary honors heroes during Veteran's Day program

Daltyn Lofstrom, The Bemidji Pioneer, Minn.
·2 min read

Nov. 11—BEMIDJI — Despite winter weather conditions and a two-hour delay,

Lincoln Elementary

and other area schools took the time to honor local service members during various Veteran's Day programs on Friday.

Lincoln Elementary started their morning with students, staff and community members gathering in the warmth of the gymnasium to honor 46 veterans throughout the event.

"We're here today to honor our heroes and remember their achievements, their courage and their dedication," Lincoln Elementary Principal Jason Luksik said during the program, "and to say 'thank you' for their sacrifices."

After the posting of the United States flag and pledge of allegiance, the third grade class sang "Star Spangled Banner" and keeping in theme of giving thanks, they also performed, "Thank You, Soldiers."

Lincoln paraprofessional George Hede, who also served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years, then offered remarks as the guest speaker before area veterans were recognized.

One by one, veterans' names were announced as students gave them a flower and note. Applause accompanied each announcement as each respective veteran and student embraced each other in a hug.

Larry and Helen Schuette presented two Quilts of Valor, handmade quilts that have been awarded to veterans since 2003.

Mike Wellcome, who served in the Navy for 22 years, accepted his quilt and Paul Geiger, who served in the U.S. Marines for four years and was unable to attend the ceremony, was the second recipient.

Following the program, veterans lined the hallways where students could thank them for their service with a handshake or a high-five.

Such an event hasn't been held at Lincoln since 2019 when the coronavirus pandemic limited capacities of in-person events. In place of Lincoln's usual program, the school compiled pictures of veterans into a video that was sent out to families the past couple of school years.

Though it sufficed, it was missing the spirit that the in-person event offers.

"We could still do something during COVID, but we're really happy we can hold something in person like we did today so we can get the veterans here and honor them," Luksik added.

Punctuating the importance of connecting service members with the students, Luksik left off, "it is very important for us to honor our veterans to make sure they know that their sacrifice is worth it, and that we see that each day. Plus, our students are able to see them, recognize them and show that respect to them, as well."

Northern Elementary and St. Philip's Catholic School also held Veteran's Day programs and activities along with other area schools throughout the week.