Bolivar Central High School Students Showed Appreciation at Veterans’ Service
Bolivar Central High School (BCHS) students paid tribute to veterans at their 5th Annual Veterans Appreciation & Awareness event held on Thursday, November 10, 2022. The purpose of the event was to honor living veterans and show appreciation while they are still living.
“The Veterans Appreciation & Awareness program was placed in my spirit when my husband passed away in 2017,” said Barbara Rogers who works as a paraprofessional at BCHS. “We appreciate all that was sent to us, but sadly my husband could not see the certificate from the President of the United States, the proclamation that was sent, and other cherished items. I know that he would have loved it because he loved random strangers coming up to him and saying ‘Thank you for your service to our country.’”
Rogers shared about her war veteran husband.
“My husband, Corporal Douglas Stephen Rogers, was a United States Marines Vietnam Combat War veteran. He participated in operations against hostile from December 20, 1966, to November 24, 1967,” said Rogers whom her husband always referred to as the “best wife ever”. “He did not retire from the military and always said, ‘Once a Marine, always a Marine.’”
Several students from various school clubs that included the history club, Fellowship of Christian Students (FSC), and Work Base class participated in presenting the program during which more than 140 veterans were recognized by the calling of their names.
BCHS Assistant Principals, Mr. Willie Parks and Ms. Shuana Bell, gave the welcome. Paige Stallworth was the mistress of ceremony, and speakers included Retired Commander Sergeant Major James E. Spencer and Tennessee State Representative Johnny Shaw. Other highlights from the event included the BCHS band performing under the direction of Richard McAnulty, the Presentation of Colors by the Bolivar Police Department, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Coach Petey and the BCHS boys basketball team, and Annalise Lucas singing the National Anthem. Hannah King read scripture and Avery King spoke a prayer. Jabari McClellan read a proclamation sent by Tennessee Senator Page Walley. Former Tennessee State Senator Dolores Gresham, who retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel, also attended.
Some students also drew pictures that were included in the program for the event.
Rogers hopes the program continues to bring awareness of the service veterans do for their country and its people.
Pictures courtesy of the BCHS yearbook staff.
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