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Perdido Elementary and Middle School held their annual Veterans Day Program Nov. 8 in the school auditorium.

Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, is a federal holiday observed each year on Nov. 11 to honor military veterans of the United States.

“This morning, our main goal is to say thank you,” Principal Phillip Stewart said. “Thank you for your willingness to serve.”

A big group of local veterans attended the event, which included students Emma Leigh Etheridge and Eowyn Allen reading essay contest winning entries, the Perdido Middle School Band playing patriotic selections, students singing “Grand Ole Flag” and the “Armed Forces Medley” and the prisoner of war/missing in action table.

The program’s keynote speaker was Atmore/Nokomis native Lt. Col. David “Adam” McGhee. McGhee, an active service member, has logged 18 years of service to the armed forces. He is a Perdido School alumnus, and serves as an engineer.

“I’m inspired by America because of the men and women in this audience,” McGhee said. “I’m inspired.”

McGhee spoke about his oversees deployments, notably about serving in South Korea, Portugal and Germany.

As a civil engineer, McGhee helps build bases.

McGhee also spoke about different opportunities the military has to offer.

Additionally, “Taps” was played and the “National Anthem” was sung. The Baldwin County High School AF JROTC posted the colors, and Gavin Brandt said the invocation.

“We just want to let you know how much we appreciate you,” Stewart said.