With gratitude and appreciation for those who have served our nation, Cumberland County Schools (CCS) honored veterans from across the district during its annual Veterans Day Program tonight at the Dr. William "Bill" Harrison Educational Resource Center. The event brought together nearly 100 veterans, CCS employees, Cumberland County Board of Education (CCBOE) members, JROTC cadets and community guests, to recognize the service, sacrifices and lasting contributions of our nation's military veterans.  

From the presentation of colors by Gray’s Creek High School’s JROTC Color Guard to the closing prayer by Jack Britt High School JROTC Instructor COL (Ret.) Ustacyia Allen-McGee, the program paid tribute to veterans and their continued service to the community.  

U.S. Army veteran Gilbert Baez delivered an inspiring speech reflecting on his experiences as a soldier, journalist and educator, sharing that some of the most important stories he has told through the years are those of military veterans. The guest speaker thanked his fellow veterans who continue to serve their communities as teachers, school administrators, bus drivers and other school employees, as well as the military families who have supported them. He reminded the audience that while their roles may change, their commitment to service remains. "There is an expression we learned in the military: Mission first, people always," said Baez. "The mission may change. The battlefield may change. The uniform may change but service remains. To every veteran here tonight: Your service mattered then. Your service matters now."

JROTC cadets from across the district helped make the evening memorable with special performances honoring veterans. During a moving tribute to each branch of the military, veterans stood to be recognized as attendees joined in singing the service medley.

Now in its eighth year, the program continues to provide CCS with a meaningful opportunity to thank veterans for their military service and recognize the many ways they continue to make a difference in the lives of students and throughout the community.

Special moments captured during the evening