RE's symphonic band led in the National Anthem and the school's guitar ensemble and singers performed "America the Beautiful." Dr. Gollan spoke, encouraging reflection about the problems veterans face after serving, so that we may look at the crisis with a different perspective. Students watched a slideshow with photos of relatives of RE students, faculty and staff who are serving in the military, and Mike Becker addressed students about a friend, colleague and U.S. Marine who died while on duty in Iraq.

He encouraged students to thank veterans – but not to stop there.

"We don't have to join the military and fight overseas in a war to support our country, though many brave souls .... will do so," Becker said. "We can protect our freedom simply by doing the right things here in America. We can vote; we can speak out against injustices; we can volunteer in our communities."