CROFTON Middle School honored the contributions of America's military men and women through the years in an inspiring Veterans Day ceremony yesterday afternoon at the school.
The tradition of commemorating Veterans Day at the school began four years ago. Col. William Holmes, who was then a member of the school's faculty, wanted the pupils to experience the value of patriotism and learn about the sacrifices made by servicemen and servicewomen to safeguard our country's liberty. Gathered around the flagpole in front of the school, the pupils heard freedom's story and shared respect for the flag and all it represents.
Yesterday's stormy weather sent the ceremony indoors. But the event was memorable, nevertheless. Nearly 100 veterans and friends gathered in the cafeteria for the ceremony, which was broadcast over the school's communication system.
Michelle Richards, Student Government Association president, began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the Crofton Middle School Chorus performing a medley of patriotic songs and Leslie Agre singing "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." Retired Navy Capt. David Hearding spoke to the school about patriotism and the importance of veterans.
Last year, the ceremony focused on the 60th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. This year, Hearding's focus was on the Korean War. Hearding recalled the history of the conflict, the sacrifices undergone by those who fought there and the danger faced by the 35,000 military men and women who still watch over the area.
Spanish teacher Marty Clayton sang "God Bless America." Kelsea Edgerly and Chrissy Zwainz performed a tolling of the bells, followed by the chorus singing taps. Staff Sgt. Leigh Ann Peterson, mother of a Crofton Middle School pupil, sang a breathtaking version of the national anthem.
After the ceremony, veterans visited classrooms, where they talked with pupils about their military experiences. Senior Master Sgt. Tony Russell was invited by his daughter Stephanie to tell her eighth-grade class about his experience in the Navy and the Air Force.
John Robinson, who served in both World War II and the Korean conflict, spoke about his experiences with Marty Clayton's class, particularly describing the Battle of the Bulge. Robinson brought with him a collection of photos from World War II and also a few from World War I, related to the military service of his wife, Lucia's, father.
Edwin Dosek, a retired Army general, wore his military decorations, including the Legion of Merit medal. Dosek, who served as president of the Crofton Civic Association, was one of many community leaders who took part in the observance. Others included Del. David G. Boschert, who is a Marine veteran; state Sen.-elect Janet Greenip; Anne Arundel County school board member Anthony Spencer; and Anne Arundel County Superintendent of Schools Eric J. Smith.
Lining the hallway at the middle school were about 500 paper bells, each bearing the name of a veteran special to a Crofton Middle School pupil. Fathers, mothers, grandparents, neighbors were represented. The ceremony may be over until next year, but the pupils at Crofton Middle won't forget the veterans.
Charity auction
The sixth annual Pat Wilson Charity Auction, sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Crofton, will take place at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Route 3 North in Bowie. More than 300 items will be up for bid in live and silent auctions. Bidders will have the chance for a home-catered dinner valued at $800, a week's stay in a Vail, Colo., condominium during golf season and a week's stay during ski season. For sports fans, there will be Redskins, Ravens and Capitals tickets, as well as autographs from Mickey Mantle, Pete Rose and Mike Schmidt. Other auction items will include dinner for two at fine area restaurants, original copies of editorial cartoons, art objects, crystal, tax-preparation services, golf dates and vacation condominium stays.
Tickets for the event, which include free hors d'oeuvres, are $5. A cash bar will be available.
All proceeds will benefit area charities and civic causes sponsored by Kiwanis. Among these are Christmas in April, the annual Halloween parade, Johns Hopkins Children's Center, two area high school Key clubs and the Crofton Middle School Builders Club.
For ticket information or to donate an item: Tom Fallon, 410-451-3998 in the evening or 301-261-0954 during business hours.
CARP meeting
Crofton Area Retired Persons will meet at 10 a.m. Nov. 20 at Seton Parish Hall. This month's program will be surprise bingo.
For information about this organization of active local seniors, its monthly luncheon meetings and trips: Joan Coyle, 410-721-3274.
Women's group to meet
This month's meeting of the Christian German-American Women's Group is scheduled for noon Monday in the social hall of First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Odenton. The group offers a chance to speak German in a Christian social atmosphere. Regina Brady will speak on the theme "God Loves You" and pianist Heidi Zech will accompany the singing of German songs. A German lunch will be served.
Information: Irene Kucholik, 301-621-7862 or Karin Jackson, 301-855-6877.