Congressman Visits PAHS for Veterans Day Assembly
Pictured: Jael Miller, Avary Powell, Congressman Thompson, Keagan Neufeld, and Lydia Miller posing with the Punxsutawney Area High School’s Phantastic Phil after their tour of the high school.
Congressman Glenn Thompson paid a visit to Punxsutawney Area High School to serve as the guest speaker for their annual Veterans Day Assembly. The congressman, who recently won another term as the representative for Pennsylvania’s largest district, joined the students and local veterans for a morning full of celebration and gratitude.
The morning began with students, faculty, and staff joined by local veterans around the flag pole for the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem. Punxsutawney senior, and Private for the Army National Guard, Natalie Elliott had the honor of raising the Flag while proudly dressed in uniform. Elliott completed basic training during the summer leading into her senior year of high school. The Punxsutawney Area High School’s Select Ensemble led the school with a moving performance of the National Anthem.
Pictured: Natalie Elliott raising the flag for the opening ceremony.
After the morning ceremony, the veterans and Congressman Thompson were invited inside for a breakfast prepared by the school’s Family and Consumer Science classes. Joining the veterans among the congressman were some other local officials including Jefferson County Commissioner Scott North (Army) and Punxsutawney School Board Officials, Doug Blose (Marines) and Deneen Evans (Marines)
The Veterans Day Assembly was held in the James A. Colonna Performance Hall at Punxsutawney Area High School. Serving as the master of ceremonies was PAHS Senior, Avary Powell. Powell is actively pursuing an appointment to the United States Naval Academy and seized the opportunity through her interactions in that process to invite Congressman Thompson to be the guest speaker.
Pictured: Avary Powell delivering her opening remarks at the Veterans Day Assembly
Powell opened the assembly by recalling her visit to the Naval Academy’s Memorial Hall in Annapolis, Maryland.
“As we walked along and lifted our eyes skyward to see the countless names written on the plaques, it was as though time had stopped. Silence was the only language spoken and the weight of the sacrifice to serve your country was heavy in our hands. How many more I thought. How many more? These fallen veterans were just alumni of the USNA. How many more men and women gave up their lives for our freedom? And when thought of, the numbers cannot be counted and the gratitude towards these individuals will forever be infinite. Because truly, there is no greater love than this: to lay down one’s life for his friends,” said Powell.
The Congressman applauded the patriotism and leadership displayed by the school. He shared how his experiences as an “Army dad” has impacted his efforts as a congressman, citing several bipartisan initiatives that he’s helped lead to provide Pennsylvania veterans with accessible and affordable quality healthcare. The Congressman’s speech held the common theme of appreciating the service and sacrifices that make America what it is, and he challenged the students to consider their role in continuing this legacy of our great country.
Following the program, several students led the Congressman and local leaders on a tour through the high school, highlighting the many unique offerings and opportunities at Punxsutawney.
Pictured: Avary Powell, Jael Miller, Keagan Neufeld, and Lydia Miller lead Congressman Thompson through the technology education wing of the high school spotlighting their robotics program, their machine and wood shop, agriculture club, and newly established aviation course.