On the morning of November 11th, the Oneonta Middle School cafeteria thrummed with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, alive with patriotic pride as the community gathered to honor local veterans with a commemorative Veterans Day breakfast. Between 8 and 11 a.m., volunteers welcomed about 30 veterans, each accompanied by a guest, for a complimentary meal served by dedicated students and staff. The cafeteria was adorned with red, white, and blue tablecloths, balloons, and American flags, while a patriotic playlist played softly in the background. A recorded medley performed by the Yellowjacket choir added to the moment, filling the room with music and reflection.
OMS Vice Principal Abigail Losie, who spearheaded the event, shared that the inspiration for it came from the veterans themselves. "It’s important to take a step back and recognize the people who put their personal lives on hold to ensure we have the freedoms we do. It takes a strong person to risk their life for a country of people they don’t even know. Oneonta Middle School is always supported by our community, and we hope that students and our community members always remember how important it is to give back."
Losie also spoke about the impact she hopes this breakfast had on students. "We want them to walk away with a deep respect for the men, women, and families who have sacrificed for them. We hope this event, and others like it, inspire them to see the good in others and develop a love for giving back. And most importantly, we hope our veterans feel recognized and appreciated. They deserve all of our thanks."
Throughout the morning, conversations between veterans and students provided valuable insight into the sacrifices of military service. Retired Chief Petty Officer Barry Townsend, an OHS Class of 1966 alumnus, offered a message to the students of OMS. "Don’t forget that you live in the greatest country in the world. It hasn’t looked so good the last few years, but when things are really down, people in this country come together and make things work. It doesn’t matter what part of it you’re in—that’s what makes this country great. That’s one of the things I’m proud to have defended—the right to vote however you choose, the right to pursue whatever future you want, whether that’s going to college or working as a truck driver. You have choices in this country that a lot of people don’t have. And that’s a big part of why I stayed in the military for 21 years. I was proud to serve."
Veteran Bruce Von Holtz shared his perspective on how military service can be a valuable path for young people. "A lot of kids graduate high school and don’t know what they want to do. Some go to college, but they’re not really sure about their future. Those are the kids I’d encourage to consider the military—it provides job training, teaches you valuable skills, and gives you opportunities you might never get otherwise. Are you ever going to go to Guam? Probably not. Are you ever going to fly around the little islands of Micronesia? Probably not. But I did, thanks to the military."
He reflected on how his service shaped his life, particularly when it came to higher education. "When I graduated high school, I had no money. I remember looking at my college acceptance letters, wondering how I was going to pay for it. Then I got my draft notice. Thanks to the GI Bill, I was able to go to college, graduate with a diploma in my hand, and not owe a cent to anyone."
This Veterans Day breakfast marks the beginning of what will become a cherished tradition for the Yellowjackets. More than just a meal, the event served as a tribute to those who have sacrificed for freedom and a reminder of the importance of sharing their stories with future generations. By hosting events like this, Oneonta Middle School continues to cultivate a culture of gratitude, service, and respect—values that will leave a lasting impact on students and the community alike.
