Ardmore, Oklahoma – A multigenerational crowd gathered at the Ardmore Veterans Home on Saturday for an annual ceremony that honored every man and woman who has served the United States. The event, organized by the home’s staff and local volunteers, highlighted the deep ties between the veteran community, local schools and families across the state.
Veterans, students and community members unite
Among the attendees were veterans from across Oklahoma, local residents, and a delegation of students from Plainview High School. The students, escorted by their coach Randy Growell, have attended the ceremony each year, reinforcing the tradition of passing gratitude from one generation to the next.“That’s really what it’s all about – making sure the next generation can change the way some of the people view this country right now,” Growell said, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in honoring service members.
Personal stories bring the ceremony to life
Growell, a 35‑year Army veteran now coaching at Plainview, recounted a touching moment from the morning. A young girl who had arrived from Africa presented him with a handwritten note expressing pride in being present at the ceremony. “She’s actually not from America, she came here from Africa and she’s so proud to be here,” Growell shared, noting how the gesture underscored the universal respect for those who have defended freedom.
Students also contributed by reading poetry that reflected the sacrifices of veterans. Senior Asa Rudisill, whose grandfather served as a Navy cook, described his participation as deeply personal. “Maybe sacrificing my comfort a little bit, though that’s astronomically different than somebody sacrificing their life, it’s still a little something I can do to return it to them,” Rudisill said.
Rudisill reflected on his grandfather’s time away from family, noting that even non‑combat sacrifices deserve remembrance. “I’m 17. If someone can go when they’re 17 to fight in a war and fight for me and my family, I can go up and give a short speech,” he added, illustrating the sense of duty that the ceremony inspires in young people.
Community impact and future outlook
The ceremony serves as a reminder that honoring veterans is not limited to formal parades or official proclamations; it thrives in everyday community gatherings where families, schools and local leaders come together. Organizers hope the event will continue to grow, drawing more students and residents each year and reinforcing the shared values of faith, family and liberty that define Ardmore.
Local officials praised the ceremony for fostering intergenerational dialogue and strengthening community bonds. By highlighting personal stories and encouraging student participation, the event aligns with Ardmore’s broader commitment to supporting veterans and nurturing the next generation of responsible citizens.
Looking ahead
Plainview High School plans to expand its involvement in future ceremonies, inviting additional classes and extracurricular groups to contribute. The veterans home also intends to broaden outreach efforts, ensuring that more families and community members can experience the gratitude and respect owed to those who have defended the nation.
As the ceremony concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members and a shared commitment to keep their stories alive for years to come.
Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.
