Cordell Schools Honor America’s Veterans During Assembly

Cordell Public Schools hosted their annual Veterans Day Assembly on Monday, Nov. 11, 2019, at the CPS Auditorium.

After the presentation of colors by Audrey Coughlan and Kadi Cameron, Gabby Giblet led the Pledge of Allegiance. Cordell Elementary’s Pre-K and kindergarten students performed a rousing rendition of “God Bless America” and “On Veterans Day.”

Kaytem Garmon then took the stage to give an emotional tribute to a Washita County veteran, her great-grandfather, Walter Swart. Swart, who turned 100 years old in September, served the United States in World War II.

Following Garmon’s tribute, Hannah Southerland introduced the event’s keynote speaker, her father and U.S. Army veteran Mike Southerland. Southerland spoke about the honor and sacrifice of America’s veterans, not only the combat veterans, but all men and women who put on the uniform and stand ready to make that sacrifice whenever they may be called upon to do so. He spoke about courage and heroism, and encouraged those gathered to also be ready to seize the opportunity to show heroism in their own lives.

“War is horrific,” he said. Veterans Day isn’t about celebrating war or victory, but about honoring those who were willing to sacrifice all for the freedoms we are now able to enjoy.

Cordell’s high school band followed Southerland with a tribute piece, “American Heroes,” a medley of the anthems of the U.S. military services. Veterans of each branch were invited to stand and be recognized when their anthem was played. The ceremony closed with the playing of “Taps” by Kaitlyn Rodrique.