FORT ATKINSON, Wis. — As part of a long-standing tradition, Fort Atkinson High School held an all-school ceremony Friday morning honoring the alumni who gave their lives fighting for our country and celebrating the seven seniors who elected to join the military upon graduation.
“It’s about reflection,” said Principal Dan Halvorsen. Past memories, past friends. I have two daughters who are also in the military who are going to be overseas for the next 5-10 years.”
Halvorson has proudly witnessed this celebration for the past eight years. A veteran himself, events like these remind him of why we are the land of the free.
“Every member of our armed forces has sacrificed for the good of our country and for us as citizens,” said class of 2021 President Brooke Leibman.
After speeches and brief presentations, forty six flags were placed into a wood holder by seniors going into the service. Each flag represented a FAHS alumni who lost their life while serving.
While those who never made it out of their uniform were honored, the seniors who will soon be stepping into their own uniform were recognized too.
Samuel Lisius, who is joining the Air Force, said he decided to serve the country to carry on a family tradition.
“It’s a lot resting on me but it’s also exciting at the same time,” Lisius said.
Jacob Horvatin, who will soon become a member of the National Guard, said it is an honor to be a part of something so much greater than himself.
“In my mind, there’s a lot of people that aren’t willing to do these things, so why not me,” Horvatin said.
Abigail Punzel will be joining the Navy. She also has a long family history of serving the country.
“I’ve always wanted to join the military ever since middle school. It’s been a big family tradition,” she said.
Dorian Burhans, who will be joining the Marines, said he was influenced by friends who talked to him about their experience serving the country and decided “it was the place for me.”
The ceremony reminded many that not only do we need to express our gratitude over Memorial Day weekend, but live by it too.
“It is our duty and privilege to remember their names and cherish the lives that are sacrificed every day,” Leibman said.
“This gives us an opportunity not just for our seniors, but also our freshman, sophomores and juniors to be part of something bigger than us,” Halvorsen said.
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