The Mayflower Community honored Veterans Day on November 11th with a number of events. A Pearson lobby display and continuous-play video celebrated “We Care” by remembering through artifacts, the contributions our veterans have made to our freedom.
In the morning, two busloads of Davis School 4th-gaders arrived to sing a set of patriotic songs directed by music teacher, Barb Van Ersvelde. In addition, they presented hand-written messages for a care package to be sent to overseas troops. The weather was frightful. Visitors were warmed by the students’ energy.
Immediately following, the Mayflower annual Veterans Day program was presented to honor Mayflower veterans and their spouses. Organized and chaired by Mayflower’s Activities Director, Chery Nelson, the event featured an address by local attorney and Vietnam War vet, Don Schild. His subject was “Veterans Day Observations and Flag Code.” Don recounted the dance that goes on between honoring the flag and protecting freedom of speech.
Then, Mayflower living veterans and spouses of deceased veterans were introduced by branch of military service followed with that branch’s service hymn played by pianist Dot Anderson. At the end, Rod Carlson played taps for the reflecting crowd.
Later in the day, two more busloads of Davis students, 4th-graders, arrived to serenade with patriotic hymns and to present messages for the care package. Both the 3rd and 4th graders were thanked with homemade cookies from the Mayflower kitchen.
We have not forgotten the gifts given to all of us by our veterans.
— Bob Mann, Sales & Marketing Director
