Veterans are essential to our country because they have made incredible sacrifices to defend our freedom. Veterans have put their lives on the line to protect our country. Woodhaven High School holds annual events to raise awareness of their service. This ensures that the individuals who served our country are being recognized for their bravery and commitment to the United States of America.
According to the Wounded Warrior Project, “Finding connection and feeling understood after the transition to civilian life is a common challenge for veterans. Most WWP warriors report that they feel isolated, lack companionship, or feel left out – a stark contrast to the camaraderie that many experience during their time in the military.”
Woodhaven High School collaborates with the Downriver for Veterans Organization to create a safe and comfortable environment for veterans. Not only is this necessary, it should be our responsibility to provide this for veterans. As of 2024, many veterans continue to face ongoing challenges. According to the Wounded Warrior Project, “The major obstacles include mental health, physical health, financial wellness, social connection, and spiritual well-being.”
The numerous sacrifices they make more than justifies why they deserve appreciation and recognition. Some collaborating events are the Veterans Appreciation Band Concert, Veterans Appreciation Basketball Game, Warehouse Clean-Ups, etc. Each one of these events plays a significant role in achieving ongoing support and understanding of what veterans mean to our country.
On November 14th, 2024, the band at Woodhaven High School hosted a Veterans Appreciation Band Concert. This concert, located in the gymnasium, was given in honor of our United States veterans. Armed Forces songs were played and t-shirts that were made by our DECA Chapter were given out for free if veterans scanned the QR code on the flyer. This was successful as many Woodhaven-Brownstown community members showed up and provided support.
During basketball season at Woodhaven High School, the Woodhaven DECA Chapter wanted to celebrate the veterans and allow local community members and the veterans to collaborate. The gymnasium was covered in posters, and the main color scheme was red, white, and blue. The Woodhaven High School band played the national anthem before the game started and continued to play more Armed Forces songs later at halftime. The basketball game aimed to show Woodhaven High School’s dedication and support to local veterans.
Another organized event that took place was the Downriver for Veterans Warehouse Clean-Up. This event gathered Woodhaven DECA Chapter students and volunteers who committed and gave their time to help clean and organize the warehouse. The Downriver for Veterans Warehouse is a place where all donations of non-perishable goods and toiletries are stored and distributed. The staff that runs the warehouse for the veterans was greatly appreciative of the assistance that the students provided.
By holding all these events, the students of Woodhaven High School were able to bridge the gap between community members and veterans. This was achieved by contributing time, having a greater understanding of the veteran’s service to our country, and what it means to give back to the United States of America. It is essential to understand and recognize the veterans who have risked their lives for the freedom of people, and Woodhaven High School strives to continue to bring awareness to its students and community members.
