Service and Opportunity: Military Leaders Share Dual Message at Jordan Veterans Day Program
By Mike Franklin
Jordan area students and community members gathered Monday at Jordan High School for a moving Veterans Day program, hosted jointly by the Jordaness Lions Club and local schools. The event featured distinguished military speakers and musical performances that emphasized themes of service and opportunity.
Brigadier General Kathleen Clary, the first featured speaker, was introduced by her brother Joe Bares, an active Jordan resident representing the American Legion Robert Patterson Post 3. Gen. Clary shared how military service became a gateway to remarkable opportunities throughout her life, tracing her journey from an ROTC nursing student to achieving the rank of Brigadier General over 34 years of service. She detailed how the military enabled her pursuit of advanced degrees, including a doctorate, funded college education for her daughters, and led to her recent command of medical forces in the Middle East in 2022. Her message emphasized how military service can unlock both personal and professional opportunities.
Colonel Seth Pedersen, Gen. Clary's husband, offered a complementary perspective, focusing on the broader concept of service itself. Drawing from his extensive experience across more than 20 countries as a platoon leader, commander, and Chief of Staff, Col. Pedersen emphasized that service can take many forms beyond military duty. While reflecting on his own military career, he encouraged attendees to find ways to serve their communities in whatever capacity they can. He expanded on the Army's "Soldiers for Life" motto, suggesting all citizens can adopt a lifelong commitment to service, whether through military service or civilian community involvement.
The program featured patriotic musical performances by the Jordan High School Choir, Jordan Middle School 5th grade choir performing "Blue, White and Red," and the Jordan High School band's rendition of "Each Time They Tell Their Story." These musical selections helped create a reflective atmosphere for the occasion.
During the ceremony, veterans were honored with the playing of their respective branch's anthem and received recognition for their service. St. John the Baptist 6th graders Ben Schmit and Charles Myers delivered a moving poetry reading of work by Howard Peet, the late grandfather of emcee Lindsay Astrup's husband.
In a special recognition of future service members, the program honored Jordan High School students Abel Krause and Aryana Bachand, who have already committed to serving in the Army National Guard.
The program, emceed by Jordaness Lion Lindsay Astrup, was a collaborative effort between the Jordaness Lions Club, Jordan High School, Jordan Middle School, and St. John the Baptist Middle School, bringing together students and community members to honor veterans' service and sacrifice.