On Monday, Nov. 11, Fremont High School (FHS) held a Veterans Day assembly to honor and express gratitude for the sacrifices veterans have made throughout their years of service.

Veterans Day is significant to many because it provides an opportunity to reflect on the acts of service performed by veterans, whether they are loved ones, strangers, or those who have lost their lives in battle. Their contributions remain important to the community.

For many in the local community, Veterans Day is especially meaningful. Some individuals have had family members serve in the military and may have lost them or seen them return changed by their experiences. For others, speaking about the trauma they endured can be difficult. The emotional weight of these memories often makes the day particularly poignant.

Even for those without direct military experience, Veterans Day holds significant emotional weight. Watching loved ones leave to serve, knowing they face life-threatening risks, is challenging. The uncertainty of not knowing whether they are safe or injured is a heavy burden. Ultimately, veterans deserve full respect for putting their lives on the line for the country.

Veterans Day is a deeply meaningful occasion for many students at FHS. Two students who participated in the assembly, seniors Bryleigh Hofer and Thalia Gonzalez, shared their thoughts about the service.

Gonzalez spoke during the ceremony as a translator, and in an interview, she explained what the experience meant to her.

“I felt a deep sense of thankfulness, as I was able to raise awareness about what our veterans have sacrificed to help keep our country safe,” Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez’s grandfather served in the military, though not for the United States, and she believes he would have felt honored by the service, as would many others who have served.

Hofer also contributed to the assembly by performing as a member of the choir.

“When I sang, I felt happy to give back to the veterans who served our country,” Hofer said. “It’s important to me because of all the sacrifices our veterans have made, and this is the least we can do to show our appreciation.”

Hofer dedicated her performance to both her grandfather and uncle, who were deeply touched by the choir’s tribute.

In the end, no matter what is done, it will never fully repay the sacrifices made by veterans. However, the least that can be done is to ensure they are always remembered and reminded of how grateful the community is for their service.