It was one of those crisp, cool November mornings at Knox County Middle School, and the energy in the gymnasium suggested something momentous was about to begin. This wasn’t merely another assembly; the dedicated educators in the Social Studies Department had carefully crafted a program for Veterans Day—a sincere tribute to the faculty members in their own hallways who had served our nation.
The initial indicator of the program’s gravity was the carefully orchestrated soundscape. As the students filed in, the usual adolescent chatter was respectfully subdued by the sound system. The Social Studies team utilized a potent mix of patriotic music, featuring stirring anthems that lent a profound sense of reverence to the space. Then, the volume swelled as the distinctive, resonant baritone of Johnny Cash filled the room. The entire gymnasium hushed, captivated by the powerful Veterans Day tune, compelling even the most restless students to pause and observe.
The program moved swiftly to its guest address by Mr. Louis Branstutter. His introduction detailed over 30 years of military service, including specialized training in Special Forces and multiple tours during active combat. When he approached the floor, his presence alone commanded immediate silence.
Mr. Branstutter delivered not a historical lecture, but a deeply felt speech, speaking with the clear, unwavering conviction of a man who understood the profound value of freedom. He ensured he acknowledged the veteran teachers in the room, recognizing their continued commitment to service through education.
He then turned his focus squarely on the young audience, giving them a challenge that cut directly through the typical middle school indifference.
“Every single day you sit here, you benefit from the sacrifice of someone who decided their life meant more than just existing,” he told them, his voice echoing perfectly. “They fought for this chance, this future, this incredible opportunity you have right now. So, to every single one of you, I challenge you to get off your butts and do something truly great with that life. Do not waste it on trivial pursuits. Do not settle for the easy path. Honor what others fought for by finding your purpose and achieving it. That, right there, is the highest form of respect you can give.”
Following Mr. Branstutter’s rousing keynote, the department honored the veterans within their own ranks, offering personal context to the call to service. Ms. Janet Jones, a proud member of the Kentucky National Guard, shared a powerful, local account of being called to active duty in Frankfort to assist with recovery efforts following a terrible and devastating tornado outbreak. Next, fellow Social Studies teacher Mr. Loveless recounted his rigorous tenure in the Navy, specifically a grueling nine-month stretch during a combat deployment where the entire crew was granted only a handful of days off the ship. Despite the immense hardships detailed, both teachers echoed a singular, heartfelt message: they were profoundly grateful to have served their country, deeply honored to now work with the youth of Knox County, and immensely proud of the reverence and respect the students demonstrated during the program.
The subsequent applause was slow to build but erupted into a genuine, sustained roar. As the students were dismissed, the customary loud exodus was replaced by a more thoughtful, hushed cadence. The combined message—from Mr. Branstutter’s challenge to the deeply personal gratitude of Ms. Jones and Mr. Loveless—had landed with palpable force, ensuring the Social Studies Department had delivered a Veterans Day program the students would internalize as a profound lesson in duty, purpose, and gratitude.
Angie Payne
Knox County Middle School
Knox County
Grades 6th-8th
