Honoring those who serve

The Farmington School District honored veterans on Nov. 11, Veterans Day, by inviting service member to breakfast and to various activities throughout the district.

“As a part of the Farmington community it is always important for our schools to recognize and honor those who have served in defense of our county,” Superintendent Matt Ruble said. “Veterans Day is our opportunity to thank all of those dedicated men and women for their service and commitment.”

During the day of recognition, the Farmington High School Black Knight Marching Band performed patriotic songs at various locations throughout the school district and during the ceremony at the St. Francois County Courthouse.

“It is an honor to be asked every year to be part of the Veterans Day program,” Band Director Tim Karth said. “It is one small way that we can thank our veterans and give back to our community.”

In addition to the Black Knight Marching Band, veterans were treated to a performance by the Lincoln Intermediate Honor Choir, a rendition of “It’s a Grand Old Flag” by the Truman Kindergarteners, and other activities throughout the district.

“We had a great turnout at each building with special thanks for our Black Knight Marching band for performances throughout the day, our food service staff for the wonderful breakfast and our teachers and admin for organizing the day’s events,” Ruble said. “It was a great day for everyone and certainly something we look forward to each year.”

Senior Chief Petty Officer Eric Spiker visits his children, Connor, left, and Emma at Lincoln Intermediate School for breakfast on Veterans Day. All of the district’s schools invited veterans for breakfast and various events to pay tribute for their service.   

Lonny Sparr has breakfast with his granddaughter, Alayna, at Lincoln Intermediate for Veterans Day. Lonny served with the 101st Airborne from 1960-63.

Dylan Pratt finishes up breakfast with his favorite veteran, Jerry Hibner, who served in the Air Force from 1966-70.  

James E. Mahurin takes the morning to spend with his grandson, Kaden Foster, during the Veterans Day tribute at Linconln Intermediate.   

Sharon and Michael Smith a enjoying the morning at Truman Kindergarten Center as they wait for their grandson, Ray Geiller, to sing “It’s a Grand Old Flag” with the rest of class.