More than 200 veterans from all branches of military service participated in Hartselle Junior High School’s annual Veterans Day Program in the school gym on Nov. 10.

The afternoon program began with veterans entering the gym to the strains of “Sounds of Sousa” by the student band and concluded with the playing of taps by student musician Sydney Lindley.

The veterans stood in silence for a recitation of the “Pledge of Allegiance,” led by eighth grader Hope Cain, and the playing of The Star Spangled Banner by the school band.

The welcome was given by student Holly Blankenship and six students read essays they had written on the subject “What Is A Veteran?

The school chorus presented its rendition of “Our America” and also sang Armed Forces songs, giving veteran the opportunity to rise and be recognized as the fight song of their particular branch of service was being sung.

Veterans were also recognized in the order of time they served. Only a few stood for the World War IJ era while most represented the Vietnam War period. One young man stood on a call for anyone who is on orders for duty to Afghanistan. He received a standing ovation.

Greg Screws of Huntsville’s Channel 19 News served as master of ceremonies.

“It means a lot for me to come back and do the program,” he said. “While new things are brought into the program from time to time, I’m struck by its consistency. This is one of the best tributes I’ve seen in the Valley, and you are being flattered by schools from all over that are doing their own Veterans Day programs.

”For the first time the program included a video presentation which was produced by Coach Shane Alexander from photos provided by students of family members currently serving in uniform.

Principal Don Pouncey closed the program by thanking faculty members, Pacesetter student leaders student musicians and others who played roles in putting on the program. He also asked all students to take a moment during the Veterans Day holiday to thank veterans for the sacrifices they’ve made and continue to make to keep America free.