Veterans remembered and honored on Armistice Day

By MILDRED BROWDER-HUGHES
Correspondent

JOHNSONVILLE — Veterans Day was celebrated in Johnsonville with a flourish on Friday with all three schools holding a special program honoring the men and women who have served in the arm forces.
The Elementary School held their observance earlier in the day beginning at 10:30.
Principal Stevie Phillips and his staff at the Middle School out did themselves again hosting a luncheon with a two-part program. The day began with a drop-in for veterans at 11:30. A register was placed in the foyer of the gym where guests were served iced fruit punch. Bowls of individual chocolates were placed there for their enjoyment and to begin their time of fellowship and camaraderie with fellow veterans.
Inside the gym, tables were laid in white linens with an arrangement of red carnations and greenery centered on a replica of the U. S. Flag.
After a period of visitation with fellow veterans and other guests, a delightful (man’s) buffet lunch was served to those in attendance, including tossed salad, grilled pork chops, baked potatoes, green beans, rolls, iced beverage and banana pudding. The Rev. Lester P. Branham, Jr. invoked the blessing for the food. The meal was prepared by the JMS Cafeteria staff, assisted by Randy Newell and Denny Eaddy at the grill.
Mr. Phillips gave the welcome and presented former coach Benjamin Carter.
Carter made a special presentation of a refinished plaque honoring former students who had served in the Armed Forces during World War II.
The JMS Chorus presented a musical, “Build Me A World”, under the direction of Michael Jackson and Debbie Tanner.
Following the meal, guests proceeded to the Memorial Garden entrance to the gym where they were met by the entire student body assembled for a special outdoor Veterans Day Ceremony, led by JMS Student Council. The setting was electrified by the placement of many miniature flags and large clusters of red, white and blue balloons floating in the breeze. The placement of flags enhanced the circular drive on the front campus.
Lindsay Smith, Student Council president, gave the welcome and served as the mistress of ceremony. The posting of the colors was by the JHS Army JROTC Color Guard Nick Robinett, Chelsey Peterson, Bobby Young and Michelle Hughes.
Nicole Hannah led in the Pledge and Morgan Hanna gave a prayer. Thomas Coker read a poem, “As We Celebrate Veterans Day” by Marilyn Lott. Austin Williams introduced the guest speaker, Honorable Hugh K. Leatherman, S. C. State Senator, District 31. At the completion of his address, Lindsay Smith presented him with a special gift.
The JMS Chorus sang, “I Am Thankful to Be An American”, followed by “Star-Spangled Banner, performed by Mr. Jackson on the Saxophone.
Macy Poston, Student Council 5th Grade Secretary, gave a veterans tribute, followed by Ashton Prosser, 6th. Grade Student Council Secretary, reading the 23rd. Psalm. Mr. Jackson closed the program by playing “Amazing Grace” on the Sax.
In addition to the aforementioned guests, special guests were Florence County Sheriff Kenny Boone, City officials and representatives from the Police Department, Fire Department, Rescue Squad, School District officials and School Board members.
The program at JHS, Honoring All Who Served, was at 2 P.M. and was inspiring. It was under the direction of Col. Robinette, director of the Army JROTC at the school. Most participants were members of the JROTC. The veterans, special guests, were given a seat of honor.
C/2LT Carrie-Jean Joye served as Mistress of Ceremonies.
Following the posting of the Color by the JHS JROTC Color Guard, Mrs. Hope Barnhill, Mrs. Jamie Harrell and Mrs. Debbie Lawrimore sang the National Anthem.
C/CPL Michelle Hughes gave the invocation, followed by a video titled “Patriotic Tribute” to the background music, “Thank You for All The
Sacrifices You Made”.
C/LTC Nicholas Robinett gave the opening remarks, followed by the song, “God Bless The U.S. Military”. C/2LT Chelsey Peterson gave “Veteran’s Day” a poem. C/2LT Thomas Singletary gave a poem, “The Bravest Man I Know”
An inspiring video, “Remember Me” was viewed. It covered every relationship possible between two people and asked for support for the military personnel.
Guest speaker was Col. Barringer F. Wingard, Jr. of Florence. In his remarks COL. Wingard said a veteran is one who writes a blank check to the U. S. Government, payable to the cost of life if necessary. He said those people who answer the call to duty do not do so because they love war. He pointed to General Francis Marion’s life of service and his heroic deeds in 1775 and mentioned all wars to date. “Volunteers are doing for us what you and I can’t do, even to the shedding of blood and giving of life,” he said. COL. Wingard said the privilege had been his to serve with bright energetic young people and he is thankful for the experience.
He asked the audience to personally thank some military person, active or inactive, during the Veterans Day Weekend for their service to this great country. He closed with a famous quote from President George Washington in support of veterans.
“Taps” was beautifully done by Victoria Moon.