Metea marks Veterans Day with speakers, ceremony

Two military speakers highlighted the Veterans Day assembly Friday morning for Metea Valley High School students in Aurora.

While an old military Humvee kept watch outside the building, Army Sgt. Alan Reyes spoke along with Marine Robert Tesmond, an English teacher at the school.

The ceremony also included a moment of silence and an explanation of items on a "Fallen Comrade Table," which was shown under spotlight in the darkened gym.

A military Blackhawk helicopter piloted by the Illinois National Guard was scheduled to arrive at 9 a.m., but on a snowy morning, the chopper was delayed and didn't arrive until after 10:30 a.m. However, once it landed near the school, some students were able to visit the aircraft to talk with its operators and take photos both inside and out.

Students also were encouraged to write letters to participants of Honor Flight Chicago to recognize and thank veterans for their service.

The school followed up the assembly with a reception for honored guests and their friends and relatives as well as local officials.