Special to the Times
On Nov. 11, 2021 a commemorative presentation expressing community support for the men and women of the US Armed Forces was held at Union County High School. The program began with an introduction of the Union County High School Band. The band played “Sound Innovations Fanfare” by Robert Sheldon. Superintendent Mike Ripplinger commenced with the welcoming ceremony, emphasizing the importance of the day and what it meant.
Ripplinger welcomed veterans and their families stating, “It is because of you and your service to this grateful nation we celebrate you and those who came before you”. He commented on the display of flags along highway 121 showing community support for our veterans, provided by the Rotary and the Interact clubs.
He stated, “Whether on land, in the air, or at sea our veterans served this country with honor, strength, humility and dignity.” He commented on documents and events, from the Declaration of Independence to presidential speeches, that shaped this country into the what it is today. He praised the men and women from all parts of the country who have chosen to serve in the US armed forces.
Ripplinger thanked veterans for “Standing between us and those who wish to bring harm to America.” Ripplinger closed his welcome with the hope that veterans are always properly honored and understand how much they are appreciated.
The UCHS JROTC color guard preformed with military precision presenting the colors of the armed forces. Representing the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. The color guard members were: Cadet Command Sergeant Major Adam Ali, Cadet Captain and Color Guard Commander Cheyann Leshuk, Cadet Sergeant Syann Malone, Cadet Sergeant and Cadet Captain Emma Fulton.
The UCHS symphonic band then performed the National Anthem and followed with “Armed Forces Medley”. UCHS teacher Ken Parrish gave a talk on why Veterans Day is celebrated in the United States. Recounting history from July 4, 1776 to present day involvement protecting freedom around the world.
He mentioned the origin of Veterans day, first organized as Armistice Day on Nov 11, 1919. This date recognizes the first anniversary of the end of the First World War. In 1926, Congress passed a resolution for an annual observance and Nov 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. He said the for 245 years Americans have fought to stop tyranny and fascism, imperialistic empires, communist aggression and religious zealots around the world.
“A force that is capable of great destruction is also capable of great compassion,” Parrish said. “Veterans have brought strength and justice against our enemies. The same people help bring compassion, comfort and aid to those in need. Who are these people? Veterans! These men and women deserve our respect and admiration.”
The guest speaker, a native of Lake Butler, Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) Kamil A. Mazal was introduced by Commander Christopher Alvarez, Tiger Battalion Commander in Union County JROTC. Mazal graduated Union County High school in May 2014 as Salutatorian of her class. In July of the same year she reported to the United States Naval academy (USNA) representing Congressman Ted Yoho (F-13). Mazal graduated from the USNA on May 25, 2018 earning her officers commission and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with an emphasis in international relations and a language minor. In Feb. 2019 she began flight school at Naval Air Station Pensacola. Having completed Initial Flight Screening (IFS) in April she began Aviation Preflight Indoctrination (API). Graduating in May, Mazal reported to Milton Fl. for Primary Flight Training (PFT) with training squadron 3 (VT-3). Completing PFT in June 2020 she reported to Corpus Christie, Texas for multi- engine Aviation Training in the T-44 King Air with training squadron 31 (VT-31) in July. Upon completion of multi-engine training in March 2021 LTJG Mazal reported to Kingsville TX for jet training in the T-45 Goshawk. She must complete this last phase of training before she can earn her wings of gold.
LTJG Mazal thanked everyone for coming and having her as guest speaker. She offered an inspiring speech. She spoke of what defines Veterans Day and what Veterans Day meant to her. Having been born in a third world country, Mazal has lived in both worlds. She understands what it is to live in a third world country. Here in the US she appreciates the opportunities that only a free society can offer.
She said that this is why we show respect and appreciation for the veterans who have served to keep us free. Ripplinger concluded the celebration with thanks to the guest speaker LTJG Kamil A, Mazal.
Ripplinger thanked LTC Kevin Steverson, Chief John Holmstrom and the JROTC Cadets for their support with the day’s celebration. “Thank You to Ms Kelly Dorsey and the Symphonic Band for sharing their outstanding musical abilities,” Ripplinger added. “Thank you to Mr. Ryan Perez and his students for helping with the program. A special thanks to the UCHS Administration for their role in bringing this all together.”
He concluded the event saying, “Thank you for joining us today and Thank you to all of our Veterans for all that you have done to protect and serve.”
