Norris High School proudly welcomed more than 60 veterans and family members on Wednesday, November 11th, for its annual Veterans Day program. Joined by the entire high school student body and staff, the Norris community gathered to recognize the courage, service, and sacrifices of those who have served our great nation.

The program, led by Norris Student Council representative Reed Butterfield, opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moving performance of the National Anthem by a Norris High School vocal ensemble. This ensemble, selected by the Nebraska State Activities Association to perform the Anthem at the Class C2 State Football Championship match later this month, included Connor King, Lylah Krueger, Kaden Kunze, Layla Fisher, Jayden Earnest, Georgia Reifert, Kimber Boyer, Sean Buller, and Christopher Tercero.

This year’s guest speaker was Vietnam War veteran and author Reynel “Rey” Martinez, who served two tours in Vietnam with the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division, including service with specialized Long-Range Reconnaissance Patrol units. Following his military service, Martinez dedicated himself to preserving veterans’ stories through his writing, including several books documenting the experiences of those who served.

Mr. Martinez’s speech focused on the stories of one veteran with special significance to the Norris community. Rey had the honor of serving with and paying special tribute to Lieutenant Ralph Lee Church, a member of Norris High School’s first graduating class and the school’s only graduate to lose his life while serving in Vietnam. Church made the ultimate sacrifice in 1971.

Earlier this year, on Memorial Day, members of the Hickman American Legion Post 105, alongside the Church family and community members, dedicated a memorial plaque honoring his service. The plaque is located on the back of the Norris School District monument sign near the flagpole in front of the high school along 68th street. This plaque stands as a testament to Lieutenant Church’s sacrifice and ensures that future generations of Titans will remember his service.

A special highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of Quilts of Valor by members of the Norris Neighbors 4-H Club. Veterans Ron Polivka and Don O’Conor were each honored with a handmade quilt in recognition of their military service. The presentation offered a heartfelt reminder that gratitude for our veterans extends across generations.

During the program, Dean Riecks, Commander of the Hickman American Legion Post 105, recognized members of the Church family and helped share Ralph’s legacy with today’s students. Riecks spoke of the importance of Veterans day in honoring and thanking all who have served, including those whose service was not always appreciated at the time. His speech ended with a standing ovation by the entire student body to honor the Vietnam Veterans in attendance who “never received their own welcome home.”

The ceremony concluded with the Norris High School Band, under the direction of Mr. Matt Jackson, performing Salute to America’s Finest, a medley of military service anthems. Veterans were invited to stand as their respective branch’s song was played, providing a fitting and meaningful conclusion to the program.

Following the assembly, veterans and guests were invited to enjoy coffee, cookies, and fellowship with members of the Norris Student Council.

Norris School District extends its sincere appreciation to the veterans and families who joined us, our guest speakers, the Norris Neighbors 4-H Club, Hickman American Legion Post 105, and our students and staff for making this year’s ceremony a success. Special thanks to Mr. Kyle Steinkuhler, Norris High School Social Studies Department Chair, for his many hours of work to plan and coordinate the assembly.

To all who have served, and to the families who have supported them, thank you. Your service, sacrifice, and commitment to our country will never be forgotten.