Local veterans and the Trenton High School Marching Band descended on Anderson Elementary School to help lead the students in a special celebration held in honor of Constitution Day.
BY DOUG MENTZER
Another year, another end of summer, another start to school and the ninth annual Constitution Day took place at Anderson Elementary School Wednesday, Sept. 18.
This year marked the third year in a row that the Downriver Veterans Honor Guard joined the event. Additionally, the Trenton High School Marching Band, under the direction of Mr. Michael Kurilko, attended and performed. They have yet to miss this special day (the program was delayed by a day this year to make sure that the marching band could attend).
Beyond the focus of the obvious, the United States Constitution, this year’s program concentrated on the importance of saying what you mean! Each day, Anderson students stand at attention and recite a student pledge that encompasses the ideal that they can and will learn. They have been taught to understand that a pledge is a promise and that it means something beyond merely making a statement.
This promise, along with a daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, is central to the start of each day. The Pledge of Allegiance has also been emphasized; students understand to stand at attention and give respect to the greatest country in the world, the United States of America. It is here where they have the opportunity to embrace life and liberty!
As the Downriver Honor Guard marched forward to present the Colors, Anderson students stood silent and waited for the raising of the flag. On this special day, over 600 people, young and old, saluted Old Glory together and then listened to a rousing rendition of our national anthem. For many, it brings a great deal of emotion! It is truly special to see our Trenton community come together and embrace what’s most important…we are all united under the flag.
In a day and age where division has become all too common, on Sept. 18, at 2600 Harrison Avenue, WE were united in our vision and our pledge to be the best Americans that we can be!
Doug Mentzer is principal of Anderson Elementary School.