North Lamar High School honored local veterans with a heartfelt Veterans Day Breakfast and Program hosted by the North Lamar High School Beta Club on Monday morning. The annual event brought together students, staff, and community members to express gratitude for those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Veterans were treated to breakfast served by Beta Club members before gathering in the Sheila Daughtrey Gymnasium for a moving program featuring keynote speaker and NLHS teacher, Jerrett Jones, a United States Navy veteran.
The North Lamar High School Band performed patriotic selections, and the NLHS Choir led the crowd in musical tributes as veterans stood and saluted during the song representing their respective branch of service. The program highlighted the strength and sacrifice of the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation’s freedom.
During his address, Jones shared his personal story of service—beginning with his decision to enlist and the life-changing experiences that followed during and after his time in Afghanistan. He spoke candidly about the impact of 9/11, his journey of resilience, and the emotional challenges many veterans face upon returning home.
“9/11 was my Pearl Harbor,” Jones said. “It was the day a terrorist group attacked the country I loved. They killed my friend that day, and I would lose several more friends in the War on Terror. Even after coming back, it seemed like every month we’d lose someone else.”
Jones encouraged students to connect with veterans in their lives, emphasizing the importance of listening and understanding their stories.
“I urge all of the young people in this gym to ask a veteran about their service,” he said. “Be patient as the memories may not flood but trickle slowly. Out of necessity, many veterans file the dark parts away in their minds until they’re ready to share that part of their life with you.”
North Lamar ISD extends sincere appreciation to all veterans and active-duty service members for their courage, dedication, and sacrifice.
