On January 28 and 30, Sterling High School held the “Salute to Service” night to honor veterans and those who serve. For Sterling High School, specifically, it was an opportunity and honor to show a genuine appreciation for the sacrifices and service of military personnel and their families.

  “The idea of having the Salute to Service nights came together a few months ago as a way to honor all veterans and current service members. It’s a way for all of us to acknowledge and honor those who serve or have served in the armed forces,” activities assistant Andrew Root.

 For those who may have gone to school here at S.H.S. or anywhere local, they showed a video with pictures of them and the educational sacrifices that they have been through on the jumbotron in recognition of the bravery they represent for us. 

  During the games, JJM, a printing company here in Sterling, Ill., sells different types of gear to honor and support those who serve. There were also shirts with the Sterling logo in a camo theme thrown out to the crowd. 

  A couple of the varsity players expressed their excitement about this night being included in their season. 

  Junior Jaelynn James, “I think it was amazing to be able to honor those that have served in our community. It was so cool to see how many veterans we had supporting us, that we didn’t even know served.”

  Senior Kaedon Phillips said, “It meant a lot to us as a team to be able to honor those who served and are currently serving! It was a great night to be able to get everyone together and support a great cause. Salute to Service night was a great addition this year!”  

  We have a proud and strong military community in the Sterling area, as well as Rock Falls and Dixon, and the Salute to Service nights gave us a chance to show our deepest appreciation and gratitude for everything our veterans and families have done for us.

  While honoring those who served, this night was also a great moment of education for people to get a brief understanding and vision of things that these brave people have gone through for our freedom to be held.