Hays Lodgepole, MT — On November 11, 2024, Hays Lodgepole High School held a Veterans Day luncheon at 11:30 a.m. to honor and show gratitude for local veterans and their service. Students, staff, and community members gathered to celebrate and thank the veterans, making the day a memorable occasion.
The program included student readings of heartfelt poems and letters of appreciation, while the junior high boys shared a powerful honor song. Special guests for the luncheon included veterans Billy White, Michael Horn Weasel, Sheila Snell, Renee Hawley, Kermit Snow Jr., Max White, and Charles Hawley, along with school staff members Frank McConnell, Marc Majet, and Anthony Tristram, who also served in the military.
Each veteran received a thoughtful gift bag prepared by students, containing a custom tumbler, a Warrior hat, a braid of sweetgrass, a Thunderbirds T-shirt, and a selection of sweets—all presented in student-decorated bags.
The luncheon menu featured a generous spread of carnitas tacos with all the fixings, accompanied by chips and guacamole, beans, rice, a fresh salad bar, and plums. To finish, guests enjoyed a choice of blueberry or cherry dump cake for dessert.
During the event, veteran Michael Horn Weasel spoke to students, sharing stories of his experiences and challenges while serving. The students expressed their gratitude to all the veterans in attendance, thanking them for their dedication and sacrifices.
Hays Lodgepole High School was honored to host this gathering and show appreciation for the veterans in their community.
