BY BRANDY TEMPLETON

American Renaissance School’s Donovan Cook Center was packed with students and guests on Monday for an event to honor veterans.

Foods & Nutrition Director and After School Director Tina Farewell organized the special gathering to show appreciation for those who have served in the military.

Veterans enjoyed breakfast, speakers, the presentation of colors, military branch anthems, and a gift card raffle.

Guest Speaker Lori Egerter, founder of The Tree of Valor, made sure the veterans and students knew how important their service was.

“We’ll never understand the sacrifices you’ve made,” she said.

Egerter praised the school for doing such a good job recognizing their military members.

“ARS has set the bar with the number of veterans they’ve recognized,” she said. “Over the past two weeks, they’ve submitted over 200 photos.”

She encouraged everyone to always show their appreciation to veterans.

“Make sure you say something because it matters,” Egerter said.

Martin Gottholm believes in that sentiment.

The retired Army Blackhawk helicopter pilot served for a total of 27 years in the Air Force and Army. He enjoyed attending the event with his daughters Tessa and Bekah.

“ARS really cares about veterans, and veterans are like a family to each other,” he said.

Veteran Brenda Turner enjoyed the ceremony with her son Xavier Zsarmani.

She went into the Army to become a medical specialist. “I learned discipline,” she said. “It was a good tour.”

Egerter thanked the veterans again, reminding those in attendance that the military provides services all year long.

“Veterans Day and Memorial Day are not just days — they’re all year long for us,” she said. “We need to remind America so hopefully they won’t forget.”

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