May Peace Prevail: Veterans Day Ceremony Highlights Service and Unity

E. Wilson Morrison Elementary School hosted a heartfelt ceremony to honor veterans. The ceremony featured moving speeches, songs, and the distribution of flags to commemorate the service of those who have defended the nation.

Michael Williams, a student support coach and coordinator of the school’s Early Act club, opened the event by highlighting the significance of community service and the role of the Early Act clubs across Warren County. Early Act, sponsored by Rotary International, instills values of service and citizenship in young students. Williams expressed his pride in the initiative, noting its reach in nearly every elementary school in the county.

“Peace starts at home, and one of the best ways to cultivate that is through a heart of service above self,” Williams said.

The event was rich with tributes to veterans of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and other service branches. Among the attendees was Staff Sergeant Arthur “Bunky” Woods, a Warren County native who served in Iraq with the 101st Airborne Division. Woods shared his experiences, emphasizing the sacrifices made by servicemen and women throughout history to uphold the freedoms Americans enjoy today.

Staff Sergeant Arthur “Bunky” Woods, a Warren County native who served in Iraq with the 101st Airborne Division. Woods shared his experiences, emphasizing the sacrifices made by servicemen and women throughout history to uphold the freedoms Americans enjoy today—photo/video by Mark Williams, Royal Examiner.

Woods, who was paralyzed in Iraq after being shot by a sniper, spoke candidly about the camaraderie among soldiers. “Since Yorktown in 1776, men and women have defended the idea of America—that every man should have the freedom to live their life the way they want,” he said.

The program also featured students performing patriotic songs, including a moving rendition of the national anthem and an original piece honoring veterans. Attendees were invited to plant small flags on the school grounds to symbolize gratitude and unity.

Adding to the day’s message of peace, Williams introduced a “peace pole” displayed prominently at the school. The pole, inscribed with the message “May peace prevail on Earth” in multiple languages, serves as a reminder of the community’s commitment to harmony and understanding.

Williams reflected on the significance of the ceremony, saying, “This is the only country I know on the planet where people are fighting to get in, but you don’t see them fighting to get out. That’s because of people like Bunky and all of our veterans who’ve given us a chance at peace on Earth.”

The event concluded with the students and attendees joining together to plant the flags, a vivid representation of the community’s respect for its veterans and their sacrifices.

This gathering was yet another testament to the strong connection between the school, the community, and the values of service and gratitude.