Congressman Jim Matheson celebrated Veterans Day on Monday morning with the defenders of freedom and leaders of tomorrow.
Rep. Matheson, D-Utah, spoke to eighth-graders at Union Middle School in Midvale as part of a lively demonstration with two members of the Utah National Guard. Matheson introduced the importance of veterans to the students. Staff Sgt. Chase Archibeque and Sgt. 1st Class John Carlson conducted a contest in which a student and faculty member raced to suit up in full military gear to the cheers of classmates. The Guardsmen urged the students to respect themselves, do well in school, and put forth their best effort in all that they do.
About one-fifth of the students attending the event indicated they have family members are serving in the military.