Veterans Day is a national holiday that honors and remembers veterans of the armed forces annually on Nov. 11. The holiday recognizes the armistice of November 11, 1918, which officially marked the end of World War I. Every Veterans Day, an official wreath laying ceremony is held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The JROTC at Spartanburg High School had been preparing for weeks to march in the Veterans Day parade, but sadly it got cancelled due to weather complications. So instead of cancelling the festivities entirely, the JROTC had an in-house parade through the school, marching through the hallways. They also had a Battalion Formation and a Drill Team Exhibition that was followed by a breakfast with veterans.

Aaron Hammond (10) has been a member of the JROTC for two years and enjoyed marching in the Veterans Day parade.

“We practiced marching in class, so we already knew what to do for it. We were told where to march the day before,” Hammond said. “It was an interesting experience overall because it was fun, and we were very loud.”

Many forget the importance of Veterans Day and why people should continue to celebrate it. Lily Boucher (12) is a very involved member in the JROTC and believes that it is important to have a day to shine a light on veterans.

“I think that it is important to celebrate Veterans Day so that the veterans know that they are appreciated for taking risks that most people wouldn’t,” Boucher said. “Also, so that it spreads more awareness of the struggles veterans face to help build a community and support groups for veterans.”

While many people directly see celebrating Veterans Day making an impact, it makes many Veterans around the country feel seen and appreciated.

Stephyn Eaton is a teacher at Spartanburg High School and is a veteran. Eaton believes it is important to remember the bravery of the men and women who have served.

“Veterans Day is an opportunity to reflect on the personal sacrifice that our men and women in the armed services make daily to ensure the cultural values that make our country great remain unspoiled,” Eaton said.  “I am thankful for those who have and continue to uphold their oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States from enemies both foreign and domestic.”