[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Dear Flint Hill School Families,

Yesterday was Veterans Day. This is probably one of the most important days of the year. While we all enjoy the benefits of our freedom as a nation and the wonderful lives we are able to experience with our families, we can never take that for granted. Let’s never lose sight of the fact that our great freedom is personal, and it has only been possible because of the sacrifice, courage, commitment and bravery of those who have served our great country.

What is that quote that we have seen so often? “Land of the free, because of the brave.” It takes dedication to join the Armed Forces. People across the country have had to step forward at various times in our history to help protect our way of life. Originally, Veterans Day started in 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, when the armistice or temporary cessation of hostilities was declared between the Allied nations and Germany during World War I. That brought to an end what was always referred to as “the war to end all wars.” And yet we all know that, sadly, there were wars still to come and that the concept of war is still very much a part of the world’s history.

It was just a year or so ago that the last surviving veteran from WWI passed away. From WWII, we hear in the news that too many members of the “Greatest Generation” are passing away. They are those Americans who fought in WWII, as well as those who kept the home front intact. I have always valued my father’s service in the Army during that time and my uncle’s service as he served in both WWII and the Korean War. And I am forever grateful to all the great members of our school family who have served or continue to serve our great country.

A large American flag was proudly displayed yesterday on the Upper School building in tribute to all the veterans, and there were some outstanding school family gatherings to honor and recognize Veterans Day. History was shared and current faculty and staff members who are Veterans were honored. They received a standing ovation from the Upper School during a beautiful ceremony of respect and appreciation. Here is a link to a presentation that was created by Margie Smilowitz’ Third Grade class. It is an excellent tribute to the wonderful men and women who have been willing to step away from their families and loved ones to help protect and defend our great nation.

Our freedom translates to our life here at school. For example, it allowed us to have the amazing weekend that we recently experienced when several of our teams traveled to championship games. Our Cross Country Team posted exceptional times and ended a strong season representing Flint Hill at that meet.  Our Girls’ Volleyball Team ended an incredible season 34-0 by winning the VISAA State Tournament in Newport News, VA. The entire team and coaching staff deserves our applause and thanks for a phenomenal season. And the Boys’ Soccer Team ended the regular season winning the MAC Tournament Championship and playing among some of the best teams in Virginia to reach the finals in the VISAA State Tournament. They lost a close 2-1 match, standing proud throughout that process and representing the very best in sportsmanship. All of our great teams this season were true Huskies and had an impact on the spirit and enthusiasm that resonates throughout both campuses. Again we thank all of our veterans for the freedom that they have allowed us to enjoy to do things that we love in a safe environment.

Enjoy the rest of the week!  Be sure to say “thank you” to the veterans you know and meet. To those of you who have served and/or continue to serve—thank you. You are in our thoughts and prayers in gratitude for your outstanding efforts. I shared a poem with our Upper School that I learned a while back. Unfortunately, I don’t know the author but it is simply:

May no soldier go unloved

May no soldier walk alone

May no soldier feel forgotten

Until they all come home!

On another note, I hope you will join us for a few events we have scheduled for this weekend. On Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., the Upper School will perform its fall production, “Midsummer Jersey” in the Olson Theater. I am told it is going to bring the house down!

On Saturday, November 15 we will host our annual Holiday Shoppes event from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on the Upper School Campus. It is open to the general public and will feature an enormous array of vendors. Please join us for that as well!

I look forward to seeing you all around School this weekend! And again, please join me in thanking our veterans!!

 

Best wishes to you!

 

Sincerely,

John M. Thomas

Headmaster[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][templatera id=”17051″][/vc_column][/vc_row]