Military Appreciation Spirit Week took place from April 20th to April 24th. It was a way for our school to recognize and honor those who served in the military. Throughout the week, students and staff were encouraged to participate in themed days to show support, raise awareness, and bring the school community together.
To start off Military week, Monday the 20th was “Camouflage Day”, encouraging students to wear their favorite camo to represent military service members in the different branches and communicate how they relate.
Tuesday was “Wear Your Favorite Military Logo” day. This allowed students to represent all of the different branches of the Military such as the Air Force, Navy, Marines, Army and even the Space Force. This day gave students a chance to connect and share with others on a much more personal level, especially if you have family members serving.
Wednesday was Red Day, this day stood for “Remember Everyone Deployed.” This day carried a deeper meaning, allowing everyone to remember and show their respect to family and friends who have been deployed, putting their lives on the line to fight for our country.
Thursday is “Purple Day”, which was meant to honor all branches of the military as a whole, Purple represents unity among them. Students were highly recommended to wear their favorite purple outfits, to represent unity. By doing this students are able to show a supportive atmosphere by coming all together and participating as one. This day is vibrant, colorful, and fun, still having the message of appreciation. A few of Doherty students would go around campus and classrooms giving purple goodie bags to those whose families are serving in the military. Giving these goodie bags is wonderful way to show our appreciation as a school community.
Military appreciation week finished up with “Patriotic Day” on Friday. Students wore red, white, and blue to show the pride they have for their country. This day was an exciting day, allowing students and friends to express themselves wearing flag based clothing like hats, glasses, necklaces, and maybe even face paint. It was definitely a fun and strong way to end the week.
During Military Week, I had the pleasure of interviewing Ricky, one of Doherty’s security guards. In this interview Ricky stated, “I served 15 years in the army, I served in the Iraq war in desert storm as a Staff Sergeant E6″. During his last deployment, lasting between 2010-2011, he was injured in battle and earned a Purple Heart.
Military Appreciation Spirit Week is important because it makes students more aware of the sacrifices made by servicemen, servicewomen and their families. At Doherty, many of our security guards and staff have served on many different branches in the military. This spirit week was special because it allowed us students to show our appreciation and holds a much bigger meaning. Doherty students would like to personally say thank you to all our security guards, staff, and teachers that have put their lives out there and served for our country. Overall, this spirit week is not just about participation, but understanding and appreciating.
