FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HENRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
CONTACT: Susan Burton
Communications Director
“You only have one chance today to get your education, to love people, and to be a responsible young citizen.”
These were the words from former Henry County High School Assistant Principal, Major Randall Davis, a retired 21-year Army veteran, as he shared his life experiences with the E. W. Grove staff and student body. Davis states coming back to Henry County to share in the Veteran’s Day program is like a homecoming. “I felt a peace when I crossed the county line.” Davis was assistant principal from 2018-2020 and enjoyed working for the school system until he moved to be closer to his family in Memphis.
Other Henry County schools honored veterans in special ways such as Lakewood Elementary School’s chorus department, led by Jenny Cooper, who presented a patriotic choral production starring the 4th Grade Singers and the Lakewood Chorus. Following a complimentary breakfast by the school cafeteria, Veterans, students, and guests were treated to a presentation that included songs, appreciation speeches, and recognition of Veterans in the audience. Cooper states that her students have been studying and practicing for the program since Labor Day and have also learned how much those who serve and have served in the military mean to our country and community.
Henry County High School’s Military Club and Criminal Justice Programs hosted Veterans in the Fred Gamlin Gymnasium and recognized each Veteran by name and service. Retired U. S Air Force Veteran, Mr. Brian Fields, a native of Henry County and 1989 graduate of HCHS, challenged students to give credit to those in your life who support you. “Put in the extra effort so that you don’t miss out on opportunities in your life.”
Henry Elementary Assistant Principal, Monty Byars, a U. S. Navy Veteran, spoke to students and guests about how serving, whether in the military or in life, is a commitment to something greater than oneself. The Henry Chorus and 7th and 8th grade band entertained the crowd with a multitude of melodies, ending with a single trumpet solo of TAPS by Ellie Grgic.
The Harrelson Elementary School students created a video to honor Veterans which can be seen on their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/harrelsonschool.