On November 11, the City of Winter Springs celebrated Veterans’ Day to honor those who have served in the United States Military with an hour-long presentation filled with speeches and music by various groups. These included multiple appearances of the students and staff of Winter Springs High School. The JROTC, Chorus, and Band of Gold all performed in the event before the many spectators. 

The Veterans’ Day presentation was initially supposed to be at the veterans memorial in the town center, but due to poor weather conditions it was moved to City Hall. This led to the Band of Gold only sending in Eliana Jerez, a senior trumpet player, to perform. Despite this, the presentation ran smoothly and was still very meaningful to those in attendance. 

The event began with an invocation by a local pastor which was followed up by the presentation of the colors. The presentation of colors was done by members of the Winter Springs High School JROTC, and members of the Chorus sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The musical presentations continued with members of Rainbow Elementary playing violin for the audience. 

The City of Winter Springs added a special part to this year’s Veterans’ Day Tribute. They honored a “Hometown Hero.” The “Hometown Hero” title is awarded to a local veteran from within the Winter Springs community. This year Capt. Laurel Ross was selected for the role. Her eight years of service as a pilot earned her the Senior Army Aviator badge, the Airborne badge and the Air Assault badge. After being nominated by a friend she was presented with the award and gave a speech at the tribute. 

Following the speech, a moment of silence was held to remember those who have passed away serving in the military. Then, Jerez performed “Taps,” to end the tribute. Jerez, having come from a military family and knowing the significance of “Taps” stated, “I think for those who have lost a loved one who served in the military, it touched them.” She continued, “‘Taps’ is typically held for those who have served specifically, at funerals and other memorials in memory of veterans who have passed.” 

The history and meaning of this presentation and holiday is intended to honor and thank those who have served and their families. The students and staff of Winter Springs High School helped to show their appreciation for veterans.