It was more than just a game.

As the students of Baldwin High School were celebrating the football team’s lead over Ottawa, they watch over 50 men and women step on the field for something bigger than just football.

The BHS Patriots Club was in charge of the annual event. BHS for Vets was a way for the Baldwin City community, especially students, to honor the veterans from their local area. 

During halftime of the Baldwin vs. Ottawa football game the veterans took the field. The veterans were led out by local color guards and lined up along the field as the BHS band played three special pieces for the Vets.

“It was really neat because we got to show our respect for the Veterans and play special pieces for the different branches,” senior band member Jackie Dalton-Helms said, “but we all wish we could have seen the fireworks.”

Guest speaker Major David Wood gave a speech recognizing the veterans and presented a flag and plaque signifying the flag was flown over the United States capitial building for local Baldwin City veterans. The ceremony was ended with a fireworks display as the vets exited the field.

The crowd was really moved by the ceremony

“I’m glad the tradition is carried on for this event, it is a worthy cause and it is nice to see high school students recognize veterans and older generations,” BHS Teacher Kit Harris said. “I thought the Patriots Club was really well organized and made the event a big success.”