On Nov. 11, the Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society, sponsored by history teacher Aisha Ahmed, and the Oscar Mike Military Connected Club, sponsored by counselor Ashlee Erestain, hosted a Veterans Day breakfast in the library to commemorate all active duty and past veterans. 

Erestain organizes the Veterans Day breakfast every year as she feels it is her duty as the leader of the military club at the school. She grew up respecting and commemorating veterans in her family and community and  believes she needs to thank those who made sacrifices for their country. This breakfast gives them an opportunity to have a nice meal with their family, making up for the days when they could not. “I hope this makes veterans feel appreciated and that we see them,” Erestain said. “[I hope it] makes them know they are not lost and forgotten.”

This is Ahmed and Erestain’s second year co-organizing the breakfast. Ahmed felt the need to coordinate it because of how it brings the community together and recognizes people who have been fighting for the country. It gives students the platform and the ability to express their gratitude  face-to-face.

Rho Kappa vice president senior Kate Rood also helped organize the breakfast. “[Rho Kappa] puts one on every year, so we all decided to keep the tradition going,” Rood said. Through painting signs, setting up food, and sending out invitations, Rood worked hard to create a memorable experience. While this is Rood’s last Veterans Day breakfast, she hopes that Rock Ridge continues this tradition to honor our servicemen and veterans. “[The breakfast is] something good that we can do for our community,” Rood said.

One attendee, veteran Craig Sisler has served in the US Marine Corps for a total of 13 years, the first seven being on active duty and the next six years in the reserves. He believed the breakfast had lots of food options that were healthy, and he respected how kind and cordial everyone was. “It definitely makes me feel that I’m respected and honored by not only my daughter who’s here, but also the other faculty members, staff, and students who recognize what we go through and what we do for our families and everyone,” Sisler said. 

Another attendee, Seamen Kyle Reichert, a 2020 RRHS graduate, enlisted in the U.S. Navy shortly after his graduation.  Reichert has been serving for over three years. While surrounded by fellow veterans and other active-duty personnel, Reichert spoke proudly about his journey to the military. “I am proud of my service, [and] I am happy I am serving,” Reichert said.