WVVA High School Honors Veterans in Heartfelt Tribute

In a moving ceremony on November 7, 2024, more than 300 West Virginia Virtual Academy (WVVA) students and several community members came together to pay tribute to veterans and honor their sacrifices. This annual event powerfully reflected the values of dedication and courage upheld by our nation’s veterans, inspiring the younger generation to carry forward their legacy. 

Lt. Col. Terry St. Peter’s Inspiring Address

The keynote speaker, Lt. Col. Terry St. Peter, a retired U.S. Army veteran, captivated the audience with stories and reflections from his deployments across Europe and various U.S. states. He spoke about the realities of military life and shared invaluable advice for students interested in military careers. His firsthand accounts brought to life the commitment and sacrifices made by service members, leaving a lasting impression on the WVVA community.

Student-Led Tributes

Students played an active role in the event, contributing personal and meaningful expressions of gratitude:

• Sheba Johnson shared an original poem, a heartfelt tribute that honored the sacrifices of veterans and resonated with the audience.
• Kamara Forren Gardner delivered another touching poem expressing her admiration for those who serve.
• Xander Leivestad presented on U.S. military history, highlighting key moments that shaped the nation’s armed forces.
• Bailee Snodgrass warmly introduced Lt. Col. St. Peter, expressing appreciation for his service.

A Veteran’s Pride: Reflections from WVVA’s Teacher and Students

WVVA students expressed heartfelt gratitude for the chance to engage with Lt. Col. St. Peter. “Thank you for inviting me—I had a great time,” said Xander Leivestad. “A special thank you to Mr. Terry. His support and presence truly made a difference.” Ruben Moore echoed these sentiments, adding, “Sharing his quality of life and advice for young students will give us things to remember.”

Veteran and WVVA teacher Jon Kostival praised the students, saying, “I also want to express how incredibly proud I am of our student presenters. Their hard work, bravery in speaking in front of their peers, and dedication to the ceremony were truly remarkable.” His words underscored the pride felt by the entire WVVA community in educating students about veterans’ contributions.

Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future

WVVA’s Veterans Day program was more than an event; it was a tribute to the sacrifices made by service members and a valuable learning experience for students. As a Purple Star School, WVVA is dedicated to honoring U.S. service members and supporting military families. This commitment to fostering a culture of respect and gratitude ensures that students not only understand the significance of military service but also carry forward an appreciation for the heroes who have safeguarded our nation.

WVVA remains committed to honoring those who serve and to fostering values of respect and courage in future generations.

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