In honor of Veterans Day, North Decatur High School held a special program on November 11, 2026, recognizing and honoring all those who have served our country.
During the program, attendees heard from several National Honor Society members, teachers, and veterans who shared reflections on service, sacrifice, and the importance of remembering those who have worn our nation’s uniform.
November 11th holds special significance in American history, particularly at 11:00 a.m., when the armistice between the Allied nations and Germany took effect in 1918, bringing an end to the fighting on the Western Front during World War I. Originally known as Armistice Day, the observance was established to honor those who served in that conflict. In 1954, following World War II and the Korean War, Congress officially changed the name to Veterans Day to recognize all American veterans, past and present.
Today, the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of men and women who answered our nation’s call to serve.
“Behind every uniform is a story,” stated Naveah Schwartz.
The NDHS band performed the National Anthem, the U.S. Armed Forces Medley, and America the Beautiful. The NDES sixth-grade choir also performed America the Beautiful. The gymnasium was filled with individuals who came together to honor the veterans in attendance and remember those who are no longer with us.
Madison Rohls presented the meaning behind each item associated with America’s White Table, which was positioned at the front of the gymnasium for attendees to view.
The White Table is a tribute to American service members who are prisoners of war or missing in action. Each item placed on the small, round, single-place table carries a special meaning. The round table represents our everlasting concern for our missing comrades, while the white tablecloth symbolizes the purity of their intentions when answering the call to serve. A single red rose represents the blood shed in defense of freedom and the families who continue to wait and hope for their loved ones’ return. The red or yellow ribbon symbolizes the ongoing determination to account for those still missing. A slice of lemon represents the bitter fate of captivity, while a pinch of salt symbolizes the tears shed by family and friends. The inverted glass reminds us that these service members cannot share a toast with us, and the lit candle represents the enduring light of hope that they will find their way home. A Bible or book of faith symbolizes the spiritual strength that sustains them, while the empty chair serves as a reminder that someone is missing from our table but will never be forgotten.
Captain Ernie Ruble, a U.S. Army veteran and NDHS teacher, served as the program’s guest speaker. Proudly wearing his uniform, Captain Ruble shared a personal story about his father and his military service.
He described his father as a good, honest man, although he admitted that his father had lied about his age when he enlisted, stating he was 16 years old but claimed to be 18 years old. Ruble explained that, at the time, the government did not verify ages as closely as it does today.
His father was stationed aboard the USS Benjamin Franklin. During his service, an explosion occurred, and his father was blown off the ship. Although he could not swim at the time, he quickly learned out of necessity. While in the water, he heard the cries and screams of three young men with whom he served. Ruble explained that his father was credited with saving all three of their lives.
Captain Ruble also spoke about the importance of community and how it relates to military service. War affects far more than those who wear the uniform; it touches families, neighbors, and entire communities. During times of conflict, communities come together to support those serving overseas, care for the families left behind, and welcome home those who return. He also recognized other local families whose sons and daughters had answered the call to serve our country.
One of the most powerful messages from Captain Ruble’s presentation came when he recalled his father’s decision to help the three men in the water. His father did not know their political affiliations or the color of their skin. He simply heard fellow service members in need and immediately took action to help them.
Ruble challenged those in attendance to remember what it means to be united as Americans, stating, “We are the United States. I challenge us to come together for love of our country and each other.”
Ellie Johnson then walked attendees through the traditional flag-folding ceremony, explaining the significance of the 13 folds of the American flag. Students Grant Bruner, Jayden Lawrence, and Aiden Luttel participated in the flag-folding presentation.
The ceremony concluded with the Toll of the Bell, performed by Grant Bruner, followed by the American Legion Post #129 Honor Guard’s Rifle Salute. Curtis Combs performed Taps, providing a solemn tribute to those who have served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Mrs. Lisa Bennett, NDHS Assistant Principal, closed the program by thanking everyone who attended and encouraging students to live by the words of President John F. Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”
She encouraged students to find ways to give back, whether through participating in fundraising drives, supporting community efforts, or simply finding opportunities to make a difference right here at home.
The program served as a meaningful reminder that honoring our veterans goes beyond recognizing their military service. It also means remembering their stories, appreciating their sacrifices, supporting their families, and carrying forward the values of service, unity, and community.
