WCHS students entertain vets

By Janice M. Howard

A USO Show, reminiscent of the World War II era, was staged to entertain honored veterans and guests attending the 21st annual Veterans Program held at the Senior Center. Students from the Warren County High School theater arts department and JROTC Color Guard were willing participants when asked to put together a patriotic program for the veterans’ enjoyment.

“I want you to know these students did not hesitate when I asked for volunteers to perform for you today,” announced WCHS teacher Keith Maxwell, as the students went around the room to personally greet each veteran.

Included in the show were the Pledge of Allegiance, JROTC presentation of flags, singing of the National Anthem and a poem entitled “Tribute to Veterans.” Also sung as solos or duets were “America the Beautiful,” “The Virginia Song,” “Tightly,” “Letters From Home,” “Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue” and “God Bless the U.S.A.” A patriotic dance routine was presented as the finale.

As a highlight was the recognition of a host of veterans representing the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, Marines and Merchant Marines by Cheryl Watson Mingle, Senior Center director. She also acknowledged Magness Jordan as a former prisoner of war. The oldest veterans present were Bill West and Will Davis, both 86, and the youngest was James Green, Warren County veterans officer.

Prior to the serving of a barbecue lunch, members of Irving College Sister Act conducted brief interviews as they asked the veterans about their military experiences.

Magness Jordan, a prisoner of war during World War II, relates some of his military experiences while being interviewed by Kelsey Tate, center, and Dana Wells, members of Irving College Sister Act. In 1944, Jordan had participated in the invasion at Omaha Beach.