West Elementary fifth-grade class entertains veterans at Active Adult Center
CULLMAN, Ala. – A hundred or more lined into the Donald E. Green Active Adult Center on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, to recognize and honor Cullman’s veterans ahead of Veterans Day this weekend. Entering through a balloon arch in hues that would make Uncle Sam proud, attendees were greeted by tables covered with white linen cloths and blue runners, eagerly awaiting a homestyle lunch of meatloaf and potatoes before enjoying a program put on by West Elementary’s fifth-grade class. The annual program is led by West Elementary educator and Army Specialist Keenan Fowlkes.
Students, some wearing camouflage fatigues and others in special shirts held flags and signs, and recited the preamble before ringing out renditions of both modern and classic military tunes like “The Marines’ Hymn,” “Anchors Aweigh,” “Proud to be an American” and “God Bless the USA.” Periodically throughout the program, veterans stood in solidarity with their branch’s song or flag or to give an ovation.
Fowlkes said the program was months in the making, with practices beginning in August to prepare for the big performance. After teaching for over 20 years, and joining the military at 38 years old, Fowlkes said, she felt the need “to give more” and said leading the program is more than just a special event, it’s an emotional one as well.
“It’s emotional every time. They (students) are actually folding my grandfather’s flag from World War II,” she explained. “I have them fold it every year. It never gets old or easier.”
Stephanie Neal of the Active Adult Center, slightly misty eyed at the close of the ceremony, offered her perspective on why the event is important for the local veterans and community as a whole.
“We just wanted to honor our veterans past and present. It’s heartwarming to see them come here and it’s been a blessing for the kids to be here with them, to see the older generation being honored,” she said, waving to the dozens of elementary schoolers in attendance. “It’s a really moving event, and we’re just so proud to do it.”
Cullman Parks, Recreation and Sports Tourism (CPRST) Executive Director Nathan Anderson chimed in, echoing Neal’s gratitude, saying it was the effort of many to make the afternoon so special.
“We would like to thank the CPRST team and West Elementary fifth graders for all of their hard work putting together an amazing show to honor our veterans,” Anderson said. “As always, none of this would be possible without our generous sponsors: Cullman Regional Medical Center, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, AmFirst and Drinkard Development.”
He added, “Most importantly, we wish to thank each and every veteran within our community for their service and sacrifice.”
To learn more about the Active Adult Center and future events it hosts, visit www.cullmanrecreation.org/active-adult-center.
Copyright Humble Roots LLC, 2023. All Rights Reserved.
