Sherrard Veterans Day 2025

🇺🇸 Sherrard Schools Honor Local Veterans at All-District Assembly

The Sherrard School District hosted its all-adistrict Veterans Day assembly at Sherrard High School on Nov. 11, 2025, welcoming local veterans and community members and filling the gym with a spirit of gratitude and community pride.

Students from across the district honored veterans through music, song, art, and media. The junior high and high school choirs, directed by Callen Sederquist, opened the ceremony by performing the National Anthem.

Elementary students from Sherrard Grade and Winola Elementary, directed by Emma Haugen, performed America the Beautiful. Matherville Intermediate students, directed by Christina Pagett, sang the Armed Forces Salute, accompanied by the Sherrard High School Band, directed by Kelsey Pudlas, who also played For Country and Courage by Travis Weller during the processional and recessional.

A tribute video honoring veterans, created by Sherrard Media students led by Aaron Deneckere, and a “Thank You” slideshow by senior Ryan Butz was played on the big screen, featuring digitally submitted and hand-drawn messages from students and community members.

An American flag art installation by the Art Club, in the commons and a ceremonial Missing Man Table in the cafeteria, arranged by Head Cook Ben Shannon, further emphasized the day’s reverence.

As veterans entered the gym, the audience stood and applauded in respect, a gesture repeated as they exited at the conclusion of the ceremony.
Veterans and their families were welcomed at the door by National Honor Society students and escorted to the library for a refreshment reception, where NHS members helped serve, interact with guests, and even interview visiting veterans.

The reception was orchestrated by District Media Specialist Jill Bennin, with baked treats provided by Jacque Hamerlinck’s high school foods class. Sherrard FFA members, led by sponsors John Rasty, Ellie Franks, and Hunter Johnson, proudly displayed service branch flags, and local Boy Scout troops assisted as ushers throughout the morning.

Superintendent Dr. Carl Johnson opened the assembly with reflections on the history and meaning of Veterans Day, sharing personal stories of his father, grandfather, and uncle, all of whom served. He encouraged students to learn from the veterans in their community:
“Don’t just listen because you’re waiting to talk; listen to hear the stories beneath the words,” Dr. Johnson said.

School Board President Rhys Fullerlove introduced the morning’s featured speakers: U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen and Captain John Robertson, U.S. Army 1968–1972.

Rep. Sorensen thanked the district for creating a space where gratitude is taught and modeled:
“Look around today. You’re sitting here among people who are real heroes… You can honor their service by helping others, standing up for what’s right, and showing gratitude every day.”

Captain Robertson spoke about the meaning of duty and gratitude, reflecting on his service in Vietnam and the decades it took for him to be properly thanked:
“It wasn’t until 20 years after Vietnam that anyone thanked me. The simple words ‘thank you for your service’ are enough—and deeply appreciated by every veteran.”

The assembly was a collaborative effort highlighting students, staff, and community members. Special thanks were extended to all who contributed to a meaningful morning of recognition and remembrance.

Media coverage included QC Times, WQAD Local 4 News, and WHBF TV.

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