On Monday, Talkeetna Elementary School celebrated Veterans Day with members of the community. More than a dozen former service members turned out for the event. After being greeted by students and teachers, the veterans made their way to the gymnasium. Principal Lisa Shelby began by thanking them for their service.
“We appreciate your service to our country. We are here today to say thank you, and to honor and affirm your commitment, your courage, and your leadership.”
Afterwards, music teacher Kayti Heller sang the national anthem and Mat-Su Borough School Board Member Donna Dearman performed an American Sign Language version of “God Bless America.” Each veteran in attendance was then given a card made by Talkeetna Elementary students.
Students were also a part of the Veterans Day assembly. Members of the Student Leadership Council took part in recognizing the veterans in attendance. In closing 
remarks, council president Katelyn Hicks spoke about the impact that service members have on the United States.
“We celebrate veterans day, each time, as a time to be dedicated to the ultimate cause of world peace. We thank all our veterans for serving, giving, and displaying courage to make our country free, peaceful, and strong.”
Principal Shelby closed out the ceremony with a challenge:
“I challenge you all, everyone in this room, to go out and be courageous. Go out and display the courage of our veterans. Follow the leadership and courage of all of these great young people by affirming the kindness of those around you and making the world a better place for us all.”
Veterans Day is Tuesday.
