East Clinton FFA members demonstrate how to fold the American flag.
The East Clinton Great Oaks FFA Chapter in Ohio has been working hard to fulfill its mission of serving the community during November.
One of the chapter’s activities has truly made an impact on locals in the area. Each year, members and officers from the chapter host a school-wide assembly on Veterans Day. The assembly is meant to teach students from seventh through 12th grade about the meaning and importance of Veterans Day while also honoring the veterans who live in Clinton County, Ohio.
This has been a chapter tradition for numerous years, and it’s one that continues to inspire those who attend East Clinton High School as well as many others. Many of the officers and members who run the assembly now are the same students who watched it for many years before.
The chapter also involves other school organizations to provide them with a chance to thank veterans. Members of the school band, choir and several classes participated in the assembly.
Veterans and community members were honored at this year’s ceremony.
For the 2024-25 school year, FFA members wanted to focus on giving back to every veteran in their community. They made slideshows, videos, scripts and more to make the program special. They also included a Missing in Action and Prisoner of War table-setting tradition, a description of army medals, introductions of veterans in the community who served, a moment of silence and more. Additionally, there were several guest speakers, and members prepared a buffet-style breakfast for veterans and their loved ones who attended the ceremony.
FFA member Josi Balon introduces one of several guest speakers throughout the Veterans Day program.
“I have always loved taking part in the Veterans Day event each year,” says chapter vice president Jacob George. “For the past two years, I had the opportunity to serve as an officer. I have loved getting to know those who have served our country and honoring them in the best way we possibly can.”
For many students at the high school, it has quickly become a day to recognize family members and friends who have served in the armed forces.
“My grandfather was a veteran, and just hearing about his dedication and bravery has deepened my appreciation for all veterans,” says Abby Prater, an East Clinton FFA member who served as one of several guest speakers during the event. “This day is a time to express our gratitude and respect for the freedoms we enjoy thanks to their service.”
The East Clinton Great Oaks FFA members hope to continue this longstanding tradition, and they are proud of their chapter, school and community for allowing students to thank those who have exemplified courage, patriotism and bravery when defending our country.
