Over 100 veterans gathered for Huntsville’s Holy Spirit Regional Catholic School’s annual “Salute Our Veterans” program. The program began as the veterans processed through an honor guard of Knights of Columbus. Many of those honored were parents and family members of students, and others came from the parishes of Holy Spirit and Good Shepherd.

After presenting the colors and singing the “National Anthem,” the assembly observed a moment of silence, followed by “Taps” and a presentation of the POW MIA flag.

Medal of Honor recipient and retired U.S. Army Captain Mike Rose was the keynote speaker. With true humility and wisdom, Retired Captain Rose challenged the students to always remember, with great gratitude, the men and women who fight to protect our nation’s freedom.

The theme of this year’s program was “The Holy Family: Our Model of Courage.” Students representing each member of the Holy Family demonstrated the courage of Jesus, Our Lady, and St. Joseph. Pre-K, kindergarten, and first grade students dressed as soldiers paraded to the armed service hymns, and the veterans from each branch stood and were recognized.

The program concluded as Holy Spirit students sang “Beautiful America,” and the colors were retired. Veterans and the Knights of Columbus were invited to a reception following the program. This annual program is co-sponsored by Holy Spirit Regional Catholic School and Assembly #0004 of the Knights of Columbus of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Huntsville.