As Greeley West High School students walked into the school for their morning classes on Monday, they were greeted by the 101st Army Band. This is one of many events that happened to celebrate Veterans Day. Alongside the band, the school was handing out poppy flowers and the band worked with the school’s performing arts students during their classes.
The performing arts students had a very positive interaction with the Army and their help. Sophmore Elliot Leffler said, “I was in school earlier than most people, so I got to experience them setting up their instruments, sound check, and warming up. The music differs from what most kids expect, so expanding kids’ music tastes is good.”
Leffler said the band was equally impressive in the classroom. “When we worked with them in class they were very kind and respectful, they answered all of our questions well and with intent,” Leffler said.
Some of West’s very own teachers are Veterans and this was very special to them. Mr. Shawn Briggs was especially happy, saying, “I like that students are given poppies and an announcement is made to explain the symbolism. The kids are also great at thanking the veteran teachers. Mr. (Ky) Deitz deserves a special shout-out for trying to organize things for veteran teachers, like having Applebees delivered so we could get our free Veterans Day meal.”
Briggs discussed future Veterans Days and how he believes we should celebrate. “I think the school could have not had school on Veterans Day and I would like to see more things involving the military, like the band, but maybe presentations by veterans of wars from our past or something so students can learn more about what military service is like,” Briggs explained.
West’s students are really hoping this will be implemented as a tradition for Veterans Day moving forward. Leffler said, “If they could visit every year that would be great. It would start a tradition and give people something to look forward to. It would also give the new freshman a new experience every year.”
Junior Ileene Garcilazo agreed with him saying, “I would like to see this every year because it can inspire other students to possibly learn a new instrument or go back and learn what they’ve forgotten.”
