It was an emotional service at the Orcas School gym as veterans, community members, students and musicians paid tribute to those in the armed services.

The school held its annual Veterans Day celebration for a packed gym. It was led by Lilly Miller and Halle Thompson, both members of the ASB.

American Legion members did a presentation of colors, Alana Lago sang the National Anthem, Senator Kevin Ranker and Councilman Rick Hughes spoke and veterans Bob Folk and Bob Waunch shared stories.

Ranker, whose son is currently serving in the military, said “There are few higher callings than serving our country … thank you from the deepest place in my heart.” The audience also enjoyed music from the Orcas Island Community Band, the 5th through 12th grade band and the elementary school choir.

Students kindergarden through 12th grade read quotes about veterans.

The following students (kindergarden through 12th grade) read quotes about veterans: Atticus Vaughn, Finn Sandwith, Zane Howard and Star Sanders, Forest Frausto, Moose Kinsey, Callie O’Brien, Alecia Talbot, Astasia Monahan, Nathan Smith, Ivan Bullock and Rowan Lister.

Senior Ray Doss finished the segment with these words from Dan Lipinksi: “On this Veterans Day, let us remember the service of our veterans, and let us renew our national promise to fulfill our sacred obligations to our veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free.”

The American Legion held a Veteran’s Day Service on Nov. 11. Janis Ghazel sang and members of the legion and the auxiliary spoke in honor of those who “set aside their civilian pursuits and served their country.”