Veterans honored during assembly at Washington High School
Xavier Darden, Washington High School senior, shakes the hand of Air Force veteran Deb Williams at the end of the Veterans Day assembly at the high school Monday. After the assembly, students formed a line and shook all the hands of the veterans and thanked them for their service.
Tom Sullivan of Scenery Hill brought his collection of 70 military uniforms and clothing pieces to display during the assembly. Sullivan has aquired his collection through donations and finds from thrift shops and yard sales.
Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Patrick Burgess addresses Washington High School students.
Washington High School senior Mitchell Bedillion and the rest of the Wash High band perform the national anthem at the assembly Monday.
With a handshake and a “thank you,” scores of Washington High School students brought smiles and tears to nearly 25 veterans Monday during the school’s annual Veterans Day celebration.
After the school’s celebration assembly, which included 69 armed forces uniforms on display and a presentation of each armed force’s flag and service song, students greeted and thanked the veterans in attendance.
While most veterans were humbled and honored by the recognition, Air Force veteran Charles C. Keller said the simple act showed so much more.
“It was a wonderful program,” said Keller, 90. “Anytime that kids get the experience to say ‘thank you,’ that can only be good. It sets a model.”
Keller, a guest speaker at the assembly, shared his experience of serving in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II.
During his freshman year of college at what is now California University of Pennsylvania, Keller said he made the decision to enlist after listening to the news of the bombing of Pearl Harbor on his family’s radio.
“I was worried,” he said. “The country needed us. We did it because of our way of life, our families and the country we loved.”
During his tour of duty, Keller said he flew 35 missions over Germany and France.
His crew was responsible for bombing enemy bridges, railroads and oil refineries.
“Every mission had its own risks,” he said. “Engine failure. Bad weather. Navigation problems.
“Service to your country bears risks,” he said.
After returning from the war, Keller said he finished his degree at Cal U., went to the University of Pittsburgh’s school of law and eventually started the law firm that bears his name. Keller said his time in the Air Force was an important part of his life.
“I’ve always been proud,” he said. “I feel like I did my share.”
Jessica Pawuk, a senior at Wash High, said it was a pleasure to meet and thank Keller and the other veterans.
“Being able to look them in the eye and thank them, that’s important,” she said. “It’s important they get the respect.”