The Metea community welcomed local veterans for the Veterans Day celebration on Friday, honoring those for their service in various wars and military branches. An annual affair, the program featured the recognition of servicemen and women, various student performances, and speeches from distinguished veterans.

The assembly honored community veterans with musical performances from junior Ariyana White, the Hip-Hop club, and a joint rendition of “America the Beautiful” from the orchestra and choir.

“Veterans served you to protect this country, and to preserve life. It’s important to take the time to remember that today,” speaker Lieutenant Brian Caputo said.

Keynote speaker Lieutenant General John Bradley, a retired Air Force pilot with 41 years of service, spoke on the importance of honoring retired soldiers. 

“Veteran’s Day is the one day where [one] can reflect and thank those who serve,” Bradley said.

One of the main themes throughout the program focused on the importance of student service through community action and future endeavors.

“You don’t just have to be in the military to serve. There are plenty of ways to serve your fellow man in this country,” Bradley said.

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Photo Gallery by Ethan Meyers.

In part of the Veteran’s Day celebration, Bradley spoke to students throughout the day about his dedication to outreach with his organization Lamia Afghan.

“We wanted to change some lives by educating the girls in Afghanistan. It started with a little girl named Lamia. This little girl is what made me decide that I wanted to do something for the people in Afghanistan. I wanted to make a difference,” Bradley said.

Speakers encouraged students to participate in community outreach through service clubs and organizations to do their part. First Class Sergeant Alfredo Vargas shared similar sentiment in his speech. “All of you sitting here have the opportunity to serve this country,” Vargas said.

“I look at this generation, and I think America is set for the future,” Bradley said.