Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) welcomed veterans from across Johnston County to Smithfield-Selma High School (SSS) for its 22nd Annual Veterans Day Celebration, continuing a longstanding tradition of honoring those who have served our country.
The student-led event brought together veterans, families, and community leaders for a morning of patriotic music, military demonstrations, and meaningful tributes recognizing the service and sacrifices of America's veterans.
"The JCPS Veterans Day Celebration is an extraordinary event that allows our students to learn, understand, and express deep honor to our community’s veterans,” said Sarah Fawn McLamb, JCPS K-12 Arts Education Specialist. “Each year, I am amazed by the positive feedback from students after hearing our guest speakers' inspirational stories. It is truly a privilege to watch from the sidelines as our students give their absolute best, both in performance and respect, on behalf of the veterans in Johnston County. I am immensely proud of the hard work and dedication these young musicians bring to honor those who have served."
As veterans arrived, members of Johnston County Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts Troop 33 welcomed them and provided them with small American flags. Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) cadets handed guests programs, silk poppies, and commemorative pins.
The celebration opened with a performance of "America the Beautiful" by the JCPS All-County Band, conducted by Ryan Spell of South Johnston High. While the All-County Band performed "The Washington Post", Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Alexander McCauley of Cleveland High JROTC led the presentation of flags representing the school district’s high schools, Johnston County Public Schools, Johnston County, the state of North Carolina, the armed forces, and the United States of America.
A highlight of the ceremony was an Armed Exhibition Drill performed by Clayton High JROTC Cadet Lieutenant Commander Travis Soler and Cadet Lieutenant Junior Grade Michael Olmstead. Their demonstration showcased the precision, coordination, and discipline developed through JROTC.
The program continued with welcoming remarks and recognition of attending veteran groups by SSS JROTC Cadet Lieutenant Commander Deanna Brown. Pastor Douglas Vaughan, commander of the Pine Level American Legion, delivered the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by North Johnston High JROTC Cadet Colonel Juan Martinez Pavon. Attendees then stood for the national anthem, performed by the All-County Band.
Music remained an important part of the celebration as the High School All-County Honor Choir performed "America the Beautiful." A particularly meaningful portion of the program honored prisoners of war (POW) and those missing in action (MIA). West Johnston High JROTC Cadet Major Skylir Sawyer led the tribute, which included the POW/MIA Chair of Honor as a reminder of the U.S. service members who were captured, remain missing, or have yet to return home. Bagpiper Adrian Melvin performed "Amazing Grace," followed by the placing of a memorial wreath and the playing of “Taps” by Mark Islas Ramos of West Johnston High and Luis Miguel Aguayo-Aguilar of Cleveland High.
Robert Boyette, Johnston County director of Veterans Services, introduced guest speaker Julie Nix, a retired Air Force master sergeant representing the Veterans Council. Following Nix’s remarks, the cadet commanders led a salute to veterans. The High School All-County Honor Choir then performed the “Armed Forces Medley”, recognizing the U.S. Coast Guard, Space Force, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and Army. Veterans proudly stood and saluted as the song representing their branch of service played.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Lyn Andrews, Johnston County Board of Education chair, and a closing prayer from Johnston County Commissioner Ted Godwin. Corinth Holders High JROTC Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Gibson Jr. led the finale.
JROTC cadets lined the hallways, applauding and cheering as veterans and their families walked to the cafeteria, where they enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving-style meal prepared and served by JCPS School Nutrition Services.
The celebration reflects JCPS' ongoing efforts to help students understand the significance of Veterans Day and the sacrifices made by those who serve. Students throughout the district participate in activities that allow them to express their appreciation, including one of the youngest generations of learners. Each year, JCPS kindergarten students create hundreds of colorful pages featuring drawings and personal messages of thanks for local veterans.
Through opportunities like the annual Veterans Day Celebration, JCPS helps students recognize the importance of service, sacrifice, and remembering those who have defended our country. The district is grateful to the veterans who have served and remains committed to ensuring their contributions are recognized and remembered by generations to come.
“We truly believe that it is important that we take the time to recognize and honor the brave men and women who have fought to secure and protect the freedoms we are fortunate to enjoy each day. Their courage, sacrifice, and service deserve our gratitude, not just on special occasions, but throughout the year,” stated Tracey Clark, Johnston County Public Schools Parent Engagement and Special Events Coordinator. “Johnston County Public Schools and our community are committed to continuing this meaningful tradition and ensuring we never miss an opportunity to express our sincere thanks to those who have served and sacrificed for our freedom.”
