Special Message written by Rick Drake, recited by Heppner student Jacob Finch

Heppner Junior/Senior High School Choir and Band, led by Rick Drake

A Poem for our Veterans

by Jeannie Collins

Thank you

For certain men and women 

There is a day that’s set aside, 

to honor all those who've served 

with quiet dignity and pride. 

 But a day is not quite long enough

To show the honor and support, 

For all those who have sacrificed 

Yes, 24 hours is way too short. 

It takes a special person 

To defend the red, white and blue,

Integrity, honor and sacrifice 

It’s their code; it’s what they do. 

They are our constant guard at night

And our protectors throughout the day,

They keep our borders safe from harm

And keep the dangers all at bay. 

They shrug and say, “It’s just my job.”

 As they turn to walk away,

They don’t ever seem to ask for much 

To them, it’s just another day. 

They have always kept us safe 

Been alert and guarded us well, 

but there are stories and things they've seen

that they will never tell 

They are the first to stand; tall and proud

When our Anthem starts to play, 

They stand not only for themselves 

But for all those who’ve passed away. 

As we celebrate our heroes 

On this cold November Day, 

Let us all take just a moment 

Bow our heads and silently pray. 

Pray for all of our soldiers 

who are out away from home, 

pray for those who are here. 

And those who never came home. 

All of these men and women 

they are the chosen few, 

they are chosen by God to answer the call

to defend us; me and you.

But a “Thank you” doesn’t seem quite right

There should be more that we can do, 

To show our pride and support 

to you whom we look up to. 

But sometimes those words ARE enough

When they are meant straight from the heart

They may seem inadequate to some

But they at least are somewhere to start.

So we thank you, our dear veterans

 As we honor you this day 

Please know you are appreciated

 On this wondrous Veteran’s Day.

Group photos from previous Veterans Day celebrations at Heppner Jr/Sr High School