A ceremony was held at North Whidbey Middle School auditorium Nov. 10 which honored all veterans, both past and present.

Instructors and staff from Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU), Whidbey Island were in attendance with Cmdr. David A. Latosky, CNATTU Commanding Officer, as the keynote speaker.

The event kicked off with everyone reciting the pledge of allegiance and a moment of silent reflection, followed by a slideshow of past military events while the official hymns of the respective branches played over the loudspeakers.

In addition, there was fantastic singing by the school choir, music by the band, and patriotic poetry read by the student body president.

Latosky addressed the students and gave a heartfelt speech on what it means to him to be a veteran and also gave them a history lesson on how Armistice Day began with a proclamation from President Woodrow Wilson on Nov. 11, 1919 and how it evolved into Veterans Day with the signing of legislation by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on June 1, 1954.

Aviation Electronics Technician First Class Vernon Bell also addressed the assembly.

“Veterans Day holds a special significance to each and every service member,” said Bell. “It offers a time to reflect and honor those who have worn the uniform and served this great nation.”

Latosky and staff also took a moment to renew their Partnership in Education pledge with the school.  Instructors from CNATTU volunteered over 900 hours during the 2009-2010 school year and are well on track to exceed that number this year.