As Veterans Day approaches, Okmulgee County schools, civic groups and local veterans’ organizations are preparing a full slate of tributes honoring the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. From school assemblies to community breakfasts and luncheons, this coming week will be filled with gratitude, remembrance and education across the region.

— County school programs set to honor veterans Area schools will host special programs, student performances and ceremonies recognizing the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans.

• Ryal School will host its ceremony Monday, Nov. 10, at 10 a.m., followed by lunch in the school cafeteria.

• Henryetta High School will hold its program beginning at 9 a.m. in the Alice Ghostley Theater.

• Okmulgee High School will welcome guests to the Dunbar Gymnasium at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11.

• Morris Public Schools will conduct multiple assemblies throughout the morning to accommodate all students: the elementary program at 10:15 a.m. in the Elementary Gym and the middle/high school assembly at 11:05 a.m. in the auditorium.

• Beggs Public Schools will host its annual assembly at 1:30 p.m. in “The Den,” featuring performances by the Band of Demons and the BES students, with desserts provided by FCCLA members.

• Preston Public Schools will hold its Veterans Day Assembly from 1-2 p.m. on Nov. 11 in the gymnasium. Veterans and spouses who would like to join them for a lunch being provided at noon are asked to send information to Supt. Mark Hudson by text or email (visit the Preston Schools Facebook page), or drop by the school office. Information needed includes the veteran’s name, military branch, years in service and whether or not they will attend the lunch and/or program.

• Schulter School will hold its program at 10 a.m. Nov. 11, coordinated by Chelsye Brown.

• Dewar Public Schools will host their tribute Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 9 a.m. at Dewar Baptist Church, followed by breakfast for veterans.

• Checotah High School will begin its ceremony at 9:30 a.m. on Nov. 11 in the Performing Arts Center, with a breakfast served beforehand from 7:30-9 a.m.

At Ryal and Henryetta, a special highlight will be a military drill and cadence demonstration led by youth participants trained by VFW Post 539 Service Officer Tricia Bear.

Bear has worked closely with area schools to arrange some of the programs, personally training 25 Ryal students, alongside Henryetta High’s Breanna Bevenue, to perform synchronized marching, commands and cadence calls that will echo traditional military discipline.

“This project has been so meaningful,” Bear shared. “The kids have worked hard to honor veterans through precision, teamwork, and respect. We want the sound of that cadence to bring back powerful memories of the dedication, determination and camaraderie that service members understand so well.”

Bear will serve as one of the squad leaders during the demonstration, though she emphasizes that “the rest of the platoon will all be kids,” reflecting the next generation’s respect for America’s veterans. Both the Ryal and Henryetta programs will be recorded to share with those unable to attend in person.

— Community programs planned Beyond the school halls, the Okmulgee community will come together on Tuesday, Nov. 11, for two special events honoring veterans:

• Veterans Breakfast – Hosted by the Okmulgee Elks Lodge, located on North Mission Road, from 8-10 a.m. All veterans and active-duty service members are invited to enjoy a complimentary breakfast and fellowship with fellow veterans and community members.

• Veterans Lunch & Program – Beginning at noon at VFW Post 1189, located at 1427 N. Okmulgee, this event will include lunch and a patriotic program organized by local veterans and auxiliary members These gatherings offer opportunities for service members and their families to connect with one another while the wider community shows its appreciation.

-Observed each year on Nov. 11, Veterans Day is a national holiday honoring all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces – past and present. The date marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918, symbolizing peace, remembrance and gratitude.

Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who gave their lives in service, Veterans Day celebrates all military veterans, thanking them for their courage, commitment and contributions to preserving freedom.