Nearly 200 veterans and their guests took part in a solemn Veterans Day observance at Mundelein High School Wednesday, Nov. 6. MHS holds its ceremony earlier in November so veterans may also participate in local Veterans Day events on Nov. 11, the actual national commemorative day. 
Visitors saw hundreds of American flags around the perimeter of the high school building as they arrived.

The ceremony began with the veterans being escorted into the gym by the MHS Drumline. Following the singing of the National Anthem the keynote speaker, Allen Lynch, addressed the audience, talking about how what those do in the military keeps everyone safe and allows them freedom to make their own life’s choices. Lynch received the Medal of Honor for his service during the Vietnam War. He is also the author of the book Zero to Hero.

The MHS Honors Wind Ensemble, under the director of Jerald Shelato, played the “theme song” for each branch of the military. Veterans stood when the music from each of their branches was played.

Following the ceremony, veterans and their guests were served breakfast at the District Office adjacent to the high school.

“For many schools, Veterans Day is just a day off from school,” said Chris Lagioia, social studies department chair and coordinator of this event. “Our school administration has chosen to have school on Veterans Day and to host this event as a way for students to understand the history of the country, its military, and why veterans are honored on this special day,” he explained.