We had the opportunity today to host a special chapel and come together as a community to recognize and honor our veterans and thank them for their service and selflessness.
The service began again this year with the Chandler High School JROTC presenting the colors for the Star Spangled Banner and the Pledge of Allegiance.
Our guest speaker this year was Lt. Col. Fred Shirley. The 76-year old Lt. Col. Shirley served in the Army for 21 years, including two years in Saigon during the Vietnam War. He was the recipient of three Silver Star Medals, the Legion of Merit and four Bronze Star Medals. Lt. Col. Shirley attends King of Glory Lutheran Church in Tempe and speaks for the Joe Foss Institute.
He spoke to the audience about the importance and power of prayer while interjecting stories from other’s and his past. He also challenged the students to make a difference, live their faith and set an example for our nation.
In addition to performing a Tribute to the Armed Forces, the Choir and Trojan Band led the audience in the singing of God Bless America to close the chapel.
We were honored to have so many veterans, family members and community members in attendance at our Veterans Day Chapel. It was very inspiring to see firsthand those who served and sacrificed for our freedoms. It was very stirring to see our students go and shake hands, talk with, and deliver hand written thank you notes to the veterans in attendance.
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Veterans Day Chapel and who contributed images of loved ones who served for our picture tribute. If you were unable to attend today, we hope you make plans to join us next year for the moving service.