TCHS Hosts Annual Veterans Day Program 2024

Every year, students and staff work together to honor our brave local veterans by hosting a ceremony that celebrates those who have served with music, fellowship, brunch, and more.

Junior Hunter Farmer provided the welcome and stated that it is a privilege to hold the Veterans Day Program year after year. He also touched on Taylor County being filled with servant leaders, noting how our veterans exemplify servant leadership and how their model of service continues to inspire those in our community to give back. A short video was shown highlighting the selfless act of service performed by our local farmers, volunteers, and members of Taylor County FFA to deliver supplies, tools, food, and water to individuals in western North Carolina whose communities were devastated by Hurricane Helene.

Junior Parker Davis gave an opening prayer.

TCHS Principal Neil Sanders also welcomed the veterans before sophomore McKinely Moss led the National Anthem, while junior Audrey Hicks signed along in American Sign Language.

Senior Maddy Brown shared a poem and thanked American Legion Post 82 for their donation that allowed us to purchase gifts for the veterans. Junior Molly Watson and sophomore Miley Sprowles also read poems.

Taylor County High School Choir performed “Veterans Day Salute” to honor our country and each of the distinct branches of the military followed by senior Chloe King and junior Jaxon McCubbin recognizing each veteran who attended the program.

Everyone stood and removed their hats to honor the brave men and women of Taylor County who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Junior Addison Compton read “Flanders Field” to further honor those who were killed in action.

Ella Milby, FFA President, and fellow FFA officers shared the special meaning behind the folding of the American flag.

Junior Nora Harris, senior Tristan Parish, and Mr. Jericho McCoy performed a special song.

Sophomore Jaci Rogers read a tribute she prepared for a very special veteran, her father Rob Rogers.

Lastly, Mrs. Lindsey McPherson, the Veterans Day Coordinator for the last ten years, gave the speech and reflection. She did a phenomenal job of connecting with both the students and the veterans and challenged each young person to create a legacy of service.

Freshman Kailie Ray shared a closing prayer before the veterans were escorted to the auditorium lobby for a brunch in their honor prepared by Mrs. Deana Shewmaker and her culinary students.

Expect greatness from Taylor County Schools!