Cumberland County Schools (CCS) hosted its Fifth Annual Veterans Day Program Nov. 9 at the Dr. William "Bill" Harrison Educational Resource Center, acknowledging the remarkable dedication and service of the district's premier professionals who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
With gratitude and respect, nearly 190 CCS employees, Board members, JROTC Cadets, and community members gathered in the auditorium to express appreciation for the unwavering courage, selflessness and commitment demonstrated by the district's U.S. Veterans in safeguarding the freedom of our nation.
Special remarks were delivered by distinguished former service members within the district's administration: SFC (Ret.) Deanna Jones, chairwoman of the Cumberland County Board of Education, and CCS Superintendent Dr. Marvin Connelly Jr., a former member of the 82nd Airborne Division, who shared heartfelt sentiments about the profound commitment of these veterans.
"Your presence here is a testament to your continued service, as many of you have transitioned from serving the nation in uniform to serving our nation's future leaders in our schools," Dr. Connelly said. "Speaking from my nine years of military experience, including combat missions, I understand the depth of commitment you and your families have dedicated to defending our everyday freedoms."
The highlights of the evening included an inspirational address by Brigadier General (Ret.) Arnold N. Gordon-Bray, who captivated the audience with insights drawn from a distinguished military career, and a military medley performed by the Smith 16 performance troupe from E.E. Smith High School.
Cumberland County Schools remains committed to recognizing and honoring the valuable contributions of its veteran professionals, fostering a culture of appreciation and gratitude within the educational community.
"It's good they [Cumberland County Schools] make the effort to recognize our folks that serve," said Bill Hammonds, who retired from the Army after 32 years and now works as the Credit Recovery Facilitator at Seventy-First High School. "I remembered attending the very first Veterans Day Program five years ago. It's truly a powerful reminder that our service doesn't end with our military careers; it extends to shaping the future through education."
