In recognition of Veterans Day, Atlanta Classical Academy (ACA) leadership, faculty, students, and families, and several dozen veterans gathered around the school’s flag pole on November 8 for ACA’s annual Veterans Day observance and changing of the flag ceremony. The celebration included a roll call for veterans (present and absent), the changing of the school colors by its Color Guard, and special musical tributes to the armed forces and veterans in attendance 

“At the start of every school day at Atlanta Classical Academy, our students pledge to pursue truth, do good, and love beauty,” said Josh Andrew, Head of School. “Only a free person can learn like this. Our annual Veterans Day celebration nurtures a love of country in our students and honors the heroes who make our life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness possible.”

The keynote speaker was Dr. Tom Conner, a retired history professor from Hillsdale College. Conner’s bio can be foundhere.

“Our veterans across the ages have put themselves on the front lines to keep our republic,” Conner said in his speech. “We owe them nothing less than our best efforts day in and day out — in ways big and small, public and private, visible and unnoticed —to preserve that precious legacy.” 

ACA senior Elizabeth Welcher, who serves as student body president, addressed the school community as the student speaker. She reflected on past Veterans Day ceremonies and why it is an important part of the school’s culture of service and remembrance. 

“These men and women have gone against their natural instincts to serve others, even if it means risking their lives,” Welcher said. “By serving each of us in this way, veterans have set an example of humble, wholehearted service; whether you have recognized it before this moment or not, this makes them a part of the miracle of your everyday American life.”