DISD salutes veterans at ceremony

Dimmitt ISD held its annual Veterans Day program this past Thursday at the high school gym to honor area servicemen who served in the various branches of the military.

Krisse Bruton was in charge of organizing the event with Mrs. Zalman’s culinary class helping provide food for a reception. Veterans also enjoyed a hamburger meal at Dimmitt Recreation provided by Invenergy.

As the event began, veterans were ushered in by Adam Sanchez, Luke Settle, Isaura Guido, Klarissa Maldonado and Kole and seated on the floor of the gym.

Posting of the Colors and Folding of the Flag was done by the Hereford JROTC under the direction of Major Johnny Journey. Pledge of Allegiance was led by Will Vanzee. Jazlyn Rodriguez did a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem and Amy Oviedo gave a welcome followed by the opening prayer by Mariah Marmelejo.

The White Table ceremony was done by Richardson GT students and Josiah Hamlin performed the Star Spangled Banner on the piano. The 5th grade choir performed “Nifty Fifty” and “If I had a Hammer,” followed by “I am a Veteran” by Dimmitt Middle School GT students. Richardson GT students also gave the “Thought for the Day”.

The DHS Bobcat Band performed Marches of the Armed Forces arranged by Michael Sweeney as veterans stood for portion of their military branch’s music.

Klancy Bruton presented the story and profiles of the “Flag Raisers of Iwo Jima, along with Ivan Moreno, Samuel Flores, CJ Wiley, Savian Martinez, Will VanZee, Saul Flores, Xavion Gonzalez, Gabriel Reyes, Drew Garcia, Damian Arriaga and Alex Hernandez.

Michelle Ontiveros led the gathering in a moment of silence and TAPS was played by the DHS Band.

Gifts and thanks were offered as Anna Wooten and Jazlyn Rodriguez announced the name of each attending veteran and their branch of service.

The benediction was offered by Olmos.