On Monday November 13th, Cannon Falls High School held an assembly for Veterans Day. This year seemed to be like any other year at first; the kids filed in to the tune of Semper Paratus, and the chatter of students, who were just happy to be out of class, filled the gymnasium. However, what most of them didn’t realize was that one of their classmates would be leading in the color guard. As the gym silenced, Brendan Klitzke called out the orders to begin the march in. To the beat of a steady drum roll, Klitzke effortlessly lead in the men, who proudly adorned their military uniforms. Their movements were precise and gracious, showing the years of dedication to their country. Once they had reached the front, a respectful silence filled the room. From the silence emerged the sound of the band as they played the Star Spangled Banner, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance lead by Mr. Hodges. In one unified voice the school recited the pledge, giving anyone who may have been listening a great feeling of patriotism.

After a brief word from Mr. Hodges, and performances from the band and choir, guest speaker, John Hobert, stepped to the podium. His words filled the gym with wisdom, as he explained the importance of Veterans Day. “Yes, Veterans Day is about the veterans,” he stated at one point in his address, “but it is also about the future service men and women, who will be sacrificing their lives so that we can all be free. ” Brendan, being enlisted in the National Guard, is one of a handful of kids of whom Hobert was speaking. A few recent graduates from Cannon Falls have decided on careers in the military, some of which include Carson Chytracek (Navy) and Abagail Van Zuilen (Air Force). Those two were all graduates from last year’s class of 2017. When asked about how it felt to be a part of the ceremony Brendan responded with “It was a great experience for me because I remember seeing them carrying the flags across the gym floor when I was a kid and thinking ‘Someday that could be me’”. He also stated that he has nothing but respect for those veterans, and what they’ve done for our country.  A slideshow of Veterans in Cannon Falls was then played to the tune of “I’m Proud to be an American” near the end of the event. Once again, Brendan delivered the marching orders, and the men filed out of the gym just as organized as they had entered.

Overall the event was a success, with the guest speaker highlighting many of the great things about this country and the men and women who serve it. In a town like Cannon Falls, Veterans day is very important, which the event proved. The sea of children and teachers held their heads high in respect for those who have fought and died for our country. It is rare in this day and age to see a group of people to gather for just about anything, so that makes it even more spectacular when people can gather around those service men and women who have given their all for their country.  Even those who, at the beginning, didn’t seem that interested, were standing a little taller at the end. It seemed as if they were using the words of Hobert as inspiration, maybe even the inspiration to one day lead in the color guard as well. Brendan had some final words of advice for any kids thinking about joining the service, stating “…just do it. Talk to recruiters from each branch and find what best fits you and your lifestyle. There is nothing to lose in joining the military. Yes, it is a huge commitment, but in the end it’s totally worth it.”