November is full of opportunities to be thankful. We observe National Native American Heritage Month, recognize Veterans Day, and celebrate Thanksgiving Day. Each event reminds us of how our nation began and why we honor those who unselfishly serve our country, and as a nation we spend the third Thursday of the month sharing with our loved ones near and far all the reasons we appreciate them.

Native American Heritage Month, like many other celebratory months, evolved from a week-long celebration. In 1986, former President Reagan proclaimed November 23-30, as “American Indian Week” and each subsequent president followed suit until 1990 when former President Bush approved a month long observation of the culture, accomplishment, and contributions of people who were the first inhabitants of the United States.” 

Veterans Day is observed every November 11th and is the day our nation honors the men and women who served in any branch of the U.S. military. The holiday was conceived in 1918, following Armistice Day that was declared at the end of World World I. Now, Veterans Day recognizes all service members for their patriotism, service and sacrifice to protect and defend the freedoms we enjoy in this country. 

Plum Senior High School recorded this year’s Veterans Day Program. You can watch the ceremony recording here.