Veterans Day in Caribou County

A solemn Veterans Day was observed across the valley, as events to honor those who have served and are still serving in the armed forces were held.  Hundreds attended traditional assemblies at the local high schools, and the winners of student essay contests presented their written words to audiences of fellow students, community members, and honored veterans.

In Soda Springs, the high school gym was filled to capacity as Principal Jess McMurray welcomed those in attendance to “thank a veteran for the right to disagree” with each other.  McMurray made the thoughtful point that even in times when there was so much division between people within the country that reminding ourselves that our ability to hold civil disagreements was the result of sacrifices made by our veterans would help change our mindset into something more positive.

SSHS’s Brandon Stoor served as the Master of ceremonies, and introduced the SSHS band, who performed a rousing version of the “1812 Overture,” directed by Kimberly Mumford.  This was followed by Thirkill Elementary School students, dressed and seated as a red and white and blue flag tableau, who performed a spirited variation on a classic, “Sweet Home America” and “We Say Thank You” under the direction of Makala Clark.

Recognition of local veterans from the branches of the armed services was led by Sara Fryar, Destinee Sturgess, Kale Hopkins, Taylor Hirsbrunner, and Delaney Johnson.

Jacob Hirsbrunner, Quartermaster of District 7 and Post 9141 representing the VFW, presented the finalists and winners of the Patriot Pen and Voice of Democracy essays—Remington Call and Samantha Dickhaut, respectively—which are printed in this edition.  

The TMS and SSHS Choirs joined together for a solemn rendition of a musical version of the memorial poem “In Flanders Field” again directed by Kim Mumford.

Veteran and SSHS staff member David Torgesen accompanied himself on guitar for an outstanding version of “God Bless America.”

A special presentation of gifts created by Mrs. Miller’s 5th and 6th grade Art classes was made to the assembled veterans, after which the colors were retired by the Caribou County veterans color guard.  The warm but respectful patriotic atmosphere of the event cannot be overstated, and as many filed out of the building afterward, equally many remained to chat and extend their thanks to the veterans honored during the morning’s events.

Later on Monday, veterans were honored again at the Gem Valley Perfoming Arts Center in Grace.  After the raising of the flag and a rifle salute veterans and their guests filed into the auditorium for a full program of music and commemoration.

Jacob Hirsbrunner once again introduced the winners of the VFW essay contests—Brigham Mickelson and Josie Fox—who once again read their essays for the public and the special audience of the gathered service members.  

Air Force Captain Lee Wilkerson was the featured speaker for the afternoon in Grace, and gave a wonderfully personal, patriotic, and spiritual speech about how a faith in the creator, in whatever form it is believed, is part of what makes America the amazing country that it is.  Along with family, it is the bedrock of what sets this country apart from others.  Wilkerson shared some of his own amazing history growing up and seeking to find his place in the world and what mattered to him, as well as some of the combat experiences that helped shape his views of what is important in life.  By turns humorous and profound, Wilkerson spoke with a deep wisdom and sly smile to both the youth in the auditorium as well as the oldest veterans.  

The musical direction of Elizabeth Buxton, recently recognized by the state of Idaho for her dedication and success, led the Serendipity Show Choir through a wonderful series of arrangements, aided by the National Honor Society members who organized the program.  

Many other events, both large and small, were held across Caribou County in honor of one of the most sacred and important days on the calendar, including veterans breakfasts and dinners, cemetery visits, and quiet home gatherings.  As Ronald Reagan famously noted, it’s appropriate to turn our thoughts to those who have given all in service of their country as the weather turns somber and the days grow shorter.  And as we move into the darkest winter, we can do so in the knowledge that there are still those out there continuing to give all to keep us safe.