New Mexico is home to many veterans. We all know a family member or friend who has served our country, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom. It is with that pride and gratitude that we come together to honor the brave men and women who have served our country.
At White Sands School, the entire community comes together each year for a special Veterans Day celebration. This year, Student Council members welcomed veterans and special guests, escorting them to the staff lounge to enjoy breakfast before joining the rest of the White Sands School community in the gym for the celebration.
Principal Dickerson invited Veterans and their spouses to have front-row seats to all of the student performances. The Organ Mountain High School Color Guard kicked off the event with the presentation of colors, followed by Mrs. Haeker’s choir class, which led the National Anthem, accompanied by Marco Jimenez.
Mrs. Aguilar’s third- through fifth-grade gifted services classes recited the Pledge of Allegiance and presented it using American Sign Language.
Girl Scout Troop 546 sang "God Bless the USA," followed by a performance of "America the Beautiful" by Mrs. Haeker's fourth-grade class.
James Jones, Chief of Police for the White Sands represented the United States Airforce and spoke about his time and service in the military.
The White Sands Fire Department were also in attendance to honor our local veterans.
Special guest Sgt. Major Michael Cano, a 1983 graduate of Las Cruces High School and a 1990 graduate of New Mexico State University, spoke about his distinguished 30-year career in the United States Army. During his service, he earned trumpet positions with two of the Army's most prestigious musical organizations: The United States Army Band, "Pershing's Own," and the United States Army Herald Trumpets, both based in Washington, D.C.
Throughout his military career, Cano had the honor of performing for seven United States presidents, two popes, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela, Boris Yeltsin, and numerous other world leaders and distinguished dignitaries at the White House.
Master Sgt. Tiffany Cannon was welcomed to the stage, where she spoke about her military career and how it led her to the United States Space Force. She encouraged students to work hard and never give up on their passions.
Retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Bill Acosta shared stories about his military service, emphasizing the importance of hard work and following one's dreams. His long career in the military took him around the world, where he gained valuable experiences and learned about different people, cultures, and communities. After retiring from the military, Acosta continued his career with Las Cruces Public Schools, proudly serving White Sands School as its custodian.
The most special moment came when the White Sands School Student Council gathered to sing the Armed Forces Medley. Veterans were invited to stand when they heard the song representing their branch of service, giving students an opportunity to recognize each branch and offer a standing ovation in appreciation of their service.
Following the performances, veterans were invited to walk through the school hallways, which were adorned with student artwork. Students lined the halls, proudly waving American flags and cheering as the veterans passed by, offering a sea of high-fives in appreciation of their service.
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