Hardin County schools observe Veterans Day

Nov. 11– Today at schools across Hardin County, Veterans Day is being observed with special programs, patriotic songs and guest speakers.

At East Hardin Elementary in a darkened gymnasium, students sat cross-legged on the floor while fifth graders performed a number of songs for the occasion as images of local current and past service members flashed on a projection screen.

Veterans in the audience were recognized and asked to stand in turn as students sang the anthems of each branch of the U.S. military service.

Army National Guard members Sgt. Drew Franks, Sgt. Luke Saint and Pfc. Will Lewis were the guests of honor, and presented the school with a recognition plaque.

Franks told students that only 1 percent of the U.S. population is currently in the armed forces, but 5 percent of the population is made up of veterans.

"It’s a hard life," said Franks. "They did it so you guys could have a better life, so they could keep the enemy overseas instead of here at home.

"Because of veterans...you guys can wake up every morning and get that great education here in America."