Series of events set to honor veterans
By SHANNON CRABTREE scrabtree@leader-news.com

A bevy of local events to honor our nation's veterans get under way Friday with events at El Campo schools.

Four events will be held to honor those who served in the nation's Armed Forces on Friday - at 8:30 a.m. in front of Louise High School, 9:30 a.m. at Myatt Elementary in the cafeteria, at 10 a.m. at St. Philip Catholic School and at 1:15 p.m. at Hutchins Elementary in the gym.

The public is invited to attend any or all of the programs.

The Louise program will include a fly-over courtesy of resident Robbie Vajdos, a collector of vintage aircraft.

Myatt Elementary students have a song-filled tribute to veterans with a few special highlights.

"The children have learned the song 'I Love My Country' and have learned American Sign Language to go with it," Coordinator Debbie Chappell said.

There will be several other songs including a brief solo by a kindergartner and first graders.

The school also has a "Wall of Veterans" with pictures placed on flags to honor those who served our nation.

The student body at St. Philip Catholic School will present a selection of patriotic music with assorted readings for the public's enjoyment.

Veterans in the audience will be recognized for their service.

The students are also in the process of collecting gifts for hospitalized veterans. The items are gathered, Principal Gwen Willis said, and transported to the Houston Veterans Affairs Hospital. There veterans can "shop" for family gifts by selecting items for loved ones.

The Hutchins program will also revolve around music with third graders performing a total of five songs including a crowdfavorite traditional one with red, white and blue mittens.

About 250 students will take part in the roughly half hour program, Coordinator Toya Matthews said.

The Craig-Harriss American Legion Post 251 and its auxiliary will hold a Veterans Day celebration Saturday, Nov. 10 at the American Legion Hall on Armory Road starting at 4:30 p.m.

A barbecue chicken dinner will be available for $6 a plate dine-in only.

At 6:30 p.m. Brian Hale will give a short program including an El Campo favorite - his recitation of Johnny Cash's "Ragged Old Flag."

That will be followed by an auction and raffle.

"We're hoping some people bring some money with them," Legion Commander Jack Birkner said, adding the Legion was anticipating a crowd of at least 200, but said all were welcome.

Monday El Campo Middle School will host its Veterans Day Program at 9 a.m. in the gym.