Sherrard High School, Congressman Eric Sorensen honor Veterans Day

On Friday, Sherrard High School's gymnasium was jam-packed with patriotism. 

The school held a district-wide assembly for Veterans Day featuring speakers, musical performances and a student-made video to honor veterans. 

After opening remarks from Sherrard Superintendent Carl Johnson and school board president Rhys Fullerlove — both of whom took time to honor U.S. veterans along with active and aspiring members of the military — guest speaker Lt. Col. Michael Burns took the podium. 

He is the chief information officer for First Army at Rock Island Arsenal.

At the assembly, Burns promoted the value of military service and careers, and noted the importance of telling the stories of U.S. veterans. 

"Army soldiers are not former soldiers — they are soldiers for life," he said. "They do not leave behind their values and skills with a transition to civilian life … They continue to serve our communities by making positive contributions, building stronger futures and inspiring future generations, just like you." 

After a flag-folding demonstration, U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen (IL-17) took the podium to offer his respects.

"I want you to think about, in second grade, where you're able to go," Sorensen said to students in the crowd. "When you get to be an adult, don't let anyone tell you what you can't accomplish in your life, and I want you to think about what serving your community means." 

He later highlighted his ongoing congressional work to support U.S. veterans, such as expanding transitional service-to-workforce support and advocating to build customized homes for disabled veterans. 

"While Veterans Day is celebrated this weekend, Veterans Day should be happening 365 days of the year," Sorensen said. "I'm committed to making sure we have the backs of the people that have put everything on the line for service. I'm honored to be (here) today to celebrate, reflect and honor the lives of our local veterans and service members … We'll never forget your sacrifices."

Allan Sedam served as an infantry medic in Vietnam. 

He has two granddaughters attending Sherrard and called the community's support, "overwhelming." 

"It was such beautiful turnout," Sedam said. "It was very respectful … with Veterans Day, I just can't believe how everybody honors our military veterans. It's really nice that they can understand the situations that veterans went through for our country." 

Having been drafted right out of high school, he said he "learned a lot" about civilian life through his years of military service. 

Allan's wife, Sheila, called the assembly "humbling." 

"When I walked in that gym, I had a hard time holding it together," she said. "My (parents) served in WWII … Listening to those (Sherrard) kids sing and play the music, is a very important part of honoring a veteran."

Private Lillian Harris is just now starting her military career, having graduated Marines Corps boot camp last month. 

She was inspired to pursue a military career by her older sister who joined the Air Force. 

"It's awesome to see this older generation (of veterans) still having that pride and sense of belonging with each other," Harris said. "And, sharing each other's stories and stuff is awesome."

As a 2023 graduate of Rockridge High School, she particularly enjoys seeing this reflected in her own communities. 

"It's also awesome to see everyone whose been able to serve and make it home," Harris said. "But it's a day of remembrance, as well, to everyone who hasn't been able to make it home."