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As President Ronald Reagan’s motivational speech, A Soldier’s Pledge, played over the loud speakers during Northview High School’s Veterans Day program Nov. 7, all sat up in their seats a little straighter.

This was one of many area events held to honor those who are serving and have served in the United States military, including the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard.

The event at NHS, which was led by the school’s Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC), recognized the meaning of the United States Flag and more.

Speaker Tyler Reeves, who graduated from Crestview High School, received his bachelor’s degree from Huntingdon College in 2011, and served as a 13F Fire Support Specialist in the Army from 2012-2015, according to the school’s website. He is a former college football player, and teaches world history and coaches football as the offensive line coach.

Reeves spoke about honoring true heroes, and referred to those who served in World War I.

He also spoke about how veterans deal with another foe, post traumatic stress disorder, and the origins of Veterans Day, which was known as Armistice Day.

Reeves said the cycle of war and peace never stops after speaking on World War II.

He said veterans are owed a lot.

“Every freedom we possess, our thanks for them are owed to veterans,” he said.

During Ernest Ward Middle’s annual Veterans Day program Nov. 8, the school choir sang a couple of patriotic selections. Additionally, the United States Navy Choir, represented by Corry Station and Pensacola Naval Air Station sang a couple of songs.

The middle school drama club presented “Dear Soldier,” a letter read by approximately six students.

Guest Speaker Escambia County School District Superintendent Malcolm Thomas, also a veteran, noted the students’ assemblage of a multi-sided mural in honor of veterans.

“We get to celebrate freedom like no other,” Thomas said. “There’s no better country on the planet.”

Thomas said when he thinks of veterans, they are the real superheroes.

“These are real mean and women who put aside all desire to put on a uniform,” he said.