SEES Veterans Day Program: Special Guest Ray Durbin

Special Guest Speaker, Ray Durbin.

Madison Doyle, story and photos:
Today, South Edmonson Elementary held their annual Veterans Day program, with Vietnam Veteran, Mr. Ray Durbin, as their guest speaker.

Mr. Durbin said it was "an honor and a privilege" to be there. "You all are the reason I am here today", as he told the students they were the reason he does what he does. 

The program was student led. Please enjoy this slideshow of the students who participated: 

Mrs. Jessica Doyle stands by her students Kinsley Jessie & Blaine Thomas as they lead the school in singing "God Bless the USA"

A very emotional performance of "God Bless the USA" was given by two students, Blaine Thomas, and Kinsley Jessie, who is a totally visually impaired kindergarten student. They proudly sang as the student body accompanied them, leaving teachers, parents, and veterans in tears.

Mrs. Jessica Doyle, who put most of today's program together, said she was very proud of her students. "This is my favorite program we put on every year." 

She said she often has students with tears in her eyes as they practice these patriotic songs. "When they sing these songs, you can feel that they really mean it. It makes it worth it all." 

The SEES student body waving American flags as they sing "Thank you Soldiers".

Mrs. Jessica also wanted to thank Ray Durbin. 

"We never get tired of hearing stories from our favorite veteran and adopted bulldog, Ray Durbin." 

She said she appreciates how much he loves the kids, and how the kids love him, and the time he volunteers at the school is "priceless". 

Principal Sarah Hatton thanks the Veterans in attendance.

Principal Sarah Hatton told her students she was "so proud" of them today. She wanted to thank teachers Mrs. Jessica Doyle, Mrs. Shannon Lowe, and Mrs. Taylor Renfro for all their hard work dedicated to organizing the program. She also thanked the veterans for coming, and for what they do for us.