BY BRANDY TEMPLETON

As Veterans Day approaches, American Renaissance School is honoring those who have served in the military with two special patriotic window displays.

Christmas trees decorated with around 100 photos of ARS staff and students’ family members who have served have been installed at the elementary and middle school buildings of the Statesville charter school, proudly showcasing all branches of the military.

The displays are just one way that Tina Farewell, ARS director of Nutrition and Before & After School Care, has chosen to give back to people who have given so much to their country.

Farewell became very supportive of veteran and other military causes after losing her eldest son Jack, 26, who served in the Marines, to suicide on March 3, 2023.

To help cope with her loss, she participates in military runs such as Mooresville’s Let’s Talk Strength 5K and shares Jack’s story with others. She recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate with TAPS, a military grief support group.

It was at a VetLife4Life event in Myrtle Beach last year that Farewell met LorI Egerter, who comes from an extensive military family and is also a passionate advocate for veterans.

She had trees and a 22TooMany Chair Salute displayed with photos of veterans who died by suicide. It was the first time Farewell’s son Jack was included in the salute, and it was very emotional for her.

“Jack no longer has a voice, but I do, and I will use it to share his story and advocate,” Farewell said. “Veterans don’t get the attention they deserve.”

She was so touched by the tributes that she formed a connection with Egerter.

Later, they reconnected at Egerter’s military gallery in Burlington, where Farewell was impressed by Egerter’s Tree of Valor project.

The project helps recognize those who serve or have served in the military, first responders, and law enforcement. Started in Christmas 2019 by Egerter and her daughter Lexi, it’s spread to multiple states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, New Jersey, Nebraska, Alabama, Missouri, Tennessee, Minnesota, and Georgia.

“I told her if she was ever up my way to let me know and I would help any way I could,” Farewell said.

Last Friday, Farewell’s idea came to fruition when Egerter drove up from Burlington with trees to display and the many photos that Farewell had carefully selected.

The pair spent more than 12 hours over two days setting up the displays.

Farewell is so excited about the project and welcomes everyone to come see the Trees of Valor.

“American Renaissance is the very first school the trees have been displayed at,” she shared. “They’ll be here until January.”

As for the future, Egerter plans to grow the project and continue giving military and others the recognition they deserve.

“They may not get to come home for Christmas, or come home at all,” she said. “This is just a way we can thank them for giving their all.”

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