St. Francis Xavier Catholic School students welcomed veterans to the Parish Hall on Veterans Day this year for the school’s annual Veterans Day Program.

Colonel James Whaley, father of a St. Francis Xavier 5th grader and a recent St. Francis Xavier graduate, served as the master of ceremonies.

Student Council Vice President Wills Bailey led the opening prayer and Student Council President Reid Pate led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance after three other middle school students presented the flag. The St. Francis Xavier 3rd and 4th grade choir then sang the National Anthem.

Various St. Francis Xavier classes sang other patriotic songs, directed by music teacher Erin Ludwick. Songs included “My Country, Tis of Thee,” “God Bless the USA,” “America the Beautiful,” and more.

The St. Francis Xavier Student Council performed "A Table Set for One," a symbolic memorial in honor of veterans who have fallen in combat. 

After the performances, Christian Peterson, the middle school’s religion and history teacher, recognized the veterans in the audience while 8th graders presented them with a note and a star from a retired American flag.

“When we were singing the Armed Forces medley, I saw a veteran crying which brought tears to my eyes, too,” said one 8th grader. “I would like to thank all veterans for their service!"