With Veterans Day, Nov. 11, falling on a Saturday, schools had their annual patriotic programs one day early this year. Among those was Great Bend High School.

Respectful and attentive students were on hand well before the program began. Veterans had been invited to come early for coffee and breakfast casserole made by Family and Consumer Sciences students. Seniors enrolled in the Government class greeted them at the front door. Instructor Carol Pfannensteil said this has been a tradition for the past 10 years.

The Social Studies department put together the program that included music by the A Cappella Choir, GBHS Orchestra and GBHS Band. The GBHS Color Guard performed as well. Students filled the bleachers and veterans had special seating on the gym floor.

American Legion Riders were the color guards.

Paige Thexton, president of the Student Council, led the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance. Activities Director Matt Westerhaus introduced the keynote speaker, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Bruce Jamison, a 2004 graduate of Great Bend High School.

Lt. Col. Jamison is the chief of Wing Plans and Programming, 22nd Air Refueling Wing, McConnell Air Force Base, Wichita. He recalled being a student in 2001 when his class watched on television as the Twin Towers fell on Sept. 11. He went on to earn a commission in May 2008 as a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy.

“It took going around the world for me to realize how special Great Bend is,” he said. While expressing thanks to the veterans around the world who continue a legacy of service, he also offered thanks for the parents and spouses who support and inspire veterans. Students and faculty members with relatives in serving in the military were also invited to stand and be recognized.