Logan Elementary School paid tribute to East Allegheny veterans during a heartfelt breakfast and assembly program held in their honor. Students proudly invited veterans from their own families to join the celebration, creating a touching connection between generations.
The event began with a breakfast reception, where students and staff had the opportunity to personally thank the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Following the meal, the school community gathered in the gymnasium for a special assembly filled with music, reflection, and gratitude, led by Principal Dr. Michael Toole.
The Logan Elementary Chorus performed a moving Armed Forces Medley recognizing each branch of the U.S. military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.
Adding to the ceremony’s significance, Jessica King, Commander of VFW District 29, presented the POW/MIA Table display and shared its powerful symbolism. Set at the center of the room, the table served as a solemn reminder of those who remain missing in action or held as prisoners of war.
King explained that the empty chair represents those who are absent, while the round table shows that the nation’s concern for them is everlasting. The white tablecloth symbolizes the purity of their motives in answering the call to duty, and a single red rose reminds us of the lives lost and the love and hope of their families. A red ribbon stands for the nation’s determination to account for the missing, while a slice of lemon represents the bitter fate of those captured or missing, and a pinch of salt signifies the tears shed by loved ones longing for answers. The inverted wine glass shows that the missing cannot join in a toast, yet the candle burning brightly on the table represents the light of hope for their return. Finally, the Bible signifies the strength gained through faith and the nation’s belief in being one nation under God.
Other special presentations were made by Logan students including Fondel Carrington-Keys (History of Veterans Day), Denzell Rudolph (Symbolism of the American Flag), Kora Boberg (Symbol of the Bald Eagle), Trevor Martin (The Red Poppy Tradition), and Madalyn King, who read Veterans Day by Cheryl Dyson. Mrs. Natalie Ciccanti also led a tribute recognizing individual branches of the military.
Musical performances added to the patriotic spirit of the event. The Logan Elementary Band played My Country, ’Tis of Thee and This Land Is Your Land, while the East Allegheny High School String Ensemble performed Freedom Finale.
The morning concluded with a round of applause and heartfelt thanks to all veterans for their courage, sacrifice, and service. The event not only honored those who have served but also provided students with a meaningful lesson in respect, gratitude, and patriotism.
